Unitarian Universalist History
Unitarian Universalism is a liberal religious tradition that was formed from the merger of two different religions: Unitarianism and Universalism. Both began in Europe hundreds of years ago. In America, the Universalist Church of America was founded in 1793, and the American Unitarian Association in 1825. In 1961, these denominations merged to form a new religion, Unitarian Universalism through the Unitarian Universalist Association.
Both religions have long histories and have contributed important theological concepts that remain central to Unitarian Universalism. Originally, all Unitarians were Christians who didn’t believe in the Trinity of God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), but in the Unity, or single aspect, of God. Later, Unitarian beliefs stressed the importance of rational thinking, a direct relationship with God, and the humanity of Jesus. Universalism emerged as a Christian denomination with a central belief in universal salvation; that is, that all people will eventually be reconciled with God.
Since the merger of the two denominations in 1961, Unitarian Universalism has nurtured its Unitarian and Universalist heritages to provide a strong voice for social justice and liberal religion.
Adapted from the UUA website.
Famous Unitarian Universalists
It may be surprising to some to discover the names of famous women and men who have been Unitarians and Universalists. Some, like Thomas Jefferson, continued to worship in more orthodox communities while holding Unitarian views. Others may not have belonged to any congregation but voiced strong Unitarian or Universalist principles.
Visit the following websites for lists of famous UUs and their biographies:
http://www.uua.org/visitors/history/
http://www.harvardsquarelibrary.org/unitarians/indexl.html
http://www.famousuus.com/american.htm