This book is based on an in-depth conversation between Howard Burton and intellectual historian David Hollinger, UC Berkeley, and examines the unique role that different strands of religion have played in 20th-century American culture. The conversation examines intriguing aspects of the distinction between Ecumenical and Evangelical Protestantism, the often overlooked role of Ecumenical Protestantism in the history of the USA, secularization theory, the development of the two-party system, the role of missionaries, and more. This carefully-edited book includes an introduction, The Exception that Proves the Rule?, and questions for discussion at the end of each chapter:I. Diverging Protestants: Ecumenical vs. EvangelicalII. Drifting towards Secularism? American religious exceptionalismIII. Often Overlooked: Reinhold Niebuhr’s LegacyIV. The Missionary Position: Encounters with The OtherV. Demographic Diversification: Cosmopolitan spies and other issues VI. William James: Interpretations and misinterpretationsVII. Strident Atheists: Evangelism 2.0VIII. An Empty Stage: America’s intellectual exchange deficitIX. Future Speculations: Pushing a historian out of his comfort zoneAbout Ideas Roadshow Conversations Series: This book is part of a series of 100 Ideas Roadshow Conversations. Presented in an accessible, conversational format, Ideas Roadshow books not only explore frontline academic research featuring world-leading researchers, including 3 Nobel Laureates, but also reveal the inspirations and personal journeys behind the research.