Abstract
Religion occupies a significant role in the Exoduster movement and how scholars talk about it. References to the Biblical exodus of Egypt, Israelites, and Canaan appear time and time again. An exploration of primary and secondary sources pertaining to the movement indicates that religious language and institutions played a significant role in motivating migration and supporting migrants on their journeys. However, though religion acted as a support for many, its presence was not universal, nor did its influence rival more practical push and pull factors. Migrants were first and foremost propelled by deplorable conditions in the South; their motivations were material. For many, religion was a form affirmation of a decision already made. Advertisers also used religious rhetoric and communities to appeal to those who were not yet convinced. As for religious institutions, church leaders used their influence to encourage migration and gather resources. Churches were an advertising and fund-raising opportunity. These bolsters were common, but not universal or essential. Exoduster voices from the era emphasize that the driving factor of their migration was material. Not every testimony leans on religion, nor does every advertisement or travel fund. Rather, religious language and institutions were contributors to movement beyond themselves.
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Recommended Citation
Mulick, Rachel E. (2026) "The Role of Religion in the Exoduster Movement," Swarthmore Undergraduate History Journal: 7 (2), 150-174. https://works.swarthmore.edu/suhj/vol7/iss2/5