In this book, the author examines Winthrop, first governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, and Oliver Cromwell, who governed England as Lord Protector of the Puritan Commonwealth in England, in the light of their striving to build nations that would obey God's rules. Both thought they were living in the last days and that Jesus would return soon. Both were disciplined men and strong leaders. And both learned, eventually, that since man is imperfect, he cannot create a perfect society. Both also learned to consider and support religious tolerance in their lands.

Against the backdrop of history in the Old World and the New, Aronson takes us behind the scenes to watch how both men handled the new variations of the Protestant faith that differed from their own Puritan views, and how they paved the way for the separation of church and state in America. It is hard to know what, if any, faith the author himself adheres to, since he's so good at getting into the minds and hearts of the leaders of all factions -- religious and political. He paints a picture of men and women who were sincere in disagreeing with each other about what it meant to be a good Christian, on the canvas of their cultures.

The author, who is looking back at 9/11 and the rise of radical Islam, sees some parallels between the 1600s and today, as our country sees another religion with a vision of holy war, and we see nations in the Middle East considering what role religion will play in their new governments. Aronson hints at a possible solution, but knows that future is still an open book. Whether you agree with the author or not, you cannot help but become engaged with the people you will meet in this book. I read it in one afternoon and did not want to put it down. Through it's written about Puritans, it's not for prudes. and I would recommend it be read together by families or in classes where all listeners are at least of high school age, since topics that used to be considered adult are mentioned in a few places with reference to the wife of King Charles, Henrietta Maria. Most of these references are in the first chapter. There is much to discuss as you read this book, and it would fit well in studies of British or American history. As the author says, in the seventeenth century, those in England and America did not think of themselves as separate countries. They were very much connected.

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