Political and Economic Impacts Since the Thirteen Colonies first united, the United States

has had one of the strongest economies in the world. Over the years, many theorists have

had varying opinions concerning the reason for this nation's strong economic standing.

One reason that has often been overlooked is that a great many of this nation's workers

have been influenced by the Protestant work ethic.

The philosophy behind this work ethic has driven many workers to attain as much

as possible at their jobs during their lifetimes. If one man were to be given credit for the

development of the Protestant work ethic it would have to be Martin Luther. In the course

of the next several pages this researcher will examine the ethic that has had such a great

impact on the United State's economy and on the economies of other nations. It has been

suggested by such writers as Weber and Smith that the Protestant work ethic first

developed around the word "calling." Basically, this term has a religious connotation

which is a task set by God. However, gradually this term was expanded to the point where

it covered many of man's activities. D

seriousness of the situation by stating that "a certain knight, Thomas More," had arrested

was given religious sanction. This stands opposed to the Catholic tradition which did not

people not influenced by capitalism to understand, is easy for capitalists to comprehend.

best way possible in order to serve God. Luther instilled in these people the concept that

that person. Since success is necessary to please God, and money is necessary to achieve

the Hanseatic cities of Lubeck and Luneberg became Protestant, the burgomaster and

Before Luther professed these beliefs, people placed little emphasis on the daily

Some common words found in the essay are:
God Luther, Middle Ages, Christ Protestants, Thirteen Colonies, Luneberg Protestant, Luther European, Protestant Reformation, Catholic Church, Foundation Capitalistic, Smith Protestant, earn money, protestant ethic, university press, martin luther, world activities, earning money, urban classes, serve god, one's duty, luther's ideas, fulfilling one's duty, everyday world activities, free imperial cities, oxford university press,
Approximate Word count = 2099
Approximate Pages = 8 (250 words per page double spaced)