Abstract
Since America's founding the Chaplaincy has been an important part of the nation's military. The U.S. Army Chaplain Corps, one of the oldest branches of the military, has served as a spiritual foundation for American soldiers. Established July 29, 1775, at the request of General George Washington, Congress authorized chaplains for each regiment of the Army.During the Revolutionary War, 218 chaplains served, offering spiritual guidance, moral counsel, and religious services to the troops.Over time, the chaplaincy has evolved, expanding to represent other denominations and faiths. During the Mexican American War, Catholic chaplains were added to the Corps, followed by Jewish and African American chaplains during the Civil War. The chaplaincy continued to expand reflecting America’s changing demographics, religious diversity, and commitment to religious freedom.
Recommended Citation
Dugan, Hannah
(2026)
"Faith in Service: The Evolving Role of Military Chaplains in Humanitarian Relief during Twentieth Century Conflicts,"
Bound Away: The Liberty Journal of History: Vol. 8:
Iss.
3, Article 9.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/ljh/vol8/iss3/9