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From the late 19th century through the Vietnam era, thousands of American Protestant missionaries embarked on a journey to transform the non-European world. However, the people they encountered ended up transforming them. This unexpected shift in perspective resulted in these missionaries and their descendants becoming advocates against racism, imperialism, and religious orthodoxy. The changes they underwent overseas led to the introduction of new liberal values into American society upon their return.
“Protestants Abroad” unveils the untold narrative of these missionaries and their significant contribution to American public life. They were not just religious envoys, but also writers, diplomats, academics, church officials, publishers, and social activists who left an indelible mark on their homeland.
David A. Hollinger offers captivating portraits of notable figures, such as Pearl Buck, John Hersey, and Henry Luce, the publisher of Life and Time. These former “mish kids” used their literary and journalistic skills to advocate for the recognition of the humanity of diverse cultures.
The book also sheds light on the strategic use of these missionary-connected individuals by the U.S. government. Their language skills and direct experience in Asian societies led to their important roles in intelligence and diplomacy. Simultaneously, scholars with missionary backgrounds, like Edwin Reischauer, spearheaded the expansion of Foreign Area Studies in universities during the Cold War.
These missionary cosmopolitans championed multiculturalism and anticolonialism, urged their churches towards ecumenical and social activism, and collaborated with Jewish intellectuals to challenge traditional Protestant cultural dominance, thereby promoting a pluralistic vision of American life.
“Protestants Abroad” uncovers the pivotal role these American Protestants played in shaping modern American liberalism and redefining the nation’s role in the world.