The development eschatological worldviews is by no means a single socio-historical event in European and American history. The fact is that examination and adherence to "apocalyptic texts have comforted the faithful, intrigued the curious and amused the skeptics for two thousand years" (Boyer 45). While modern apocalyptic belief in America is unique for its existing relationship of "high levels of education with high levels of religious belief and activity" (15), it is greatly evident that this phenomenon grew out of longstanding ancient apocalyptical ideas and is highly influenced by the human mindset. The frame of mind that causes believers to look suspiciously at the world that surrounds them. These modern and ancient apocalyptic events are characterized by their historical context, as well as the beliefs and actions of the situations. Some examples included apocalyptic ideologies that sprung up around the words, ideas, and actions of even a single man. St. Francis, Christopher Columbus, and William Miller were such men whose dispositions created an eschatology that has spanned the generations.

In 1209 St. Francis of Assisi founded a religious order highly based on the ideas of

As a former farmer in up-state New York, William Miller is one who is interestingly tied to his own eschatological worldview. Concerning himself with the date of the end of time, Miller gave long and careful study to the biblical texts and he first concluded that the end would occur in the year 1843. When 1843 passed without the slightest apocalyptic explosion revision began on Miller's date. October 22, 1844 became the destined time. When this date came and went as well there was "profound disappointment" (81), people "wept, till the day dawn" (81). Learning from mistakes, a new view is derived one that "avoided the lure of date setting" (81). This new idea spawned the birth of dispensational premillennialism in response to the Millerite faults. The idea of God's eschatological assurance appealed to many and convinced people of Miller's revival. Another thing that appealed to people was the fact that this religion was very informal and easily understood. People like the fact that they can participate more freely because they understand the prophecies. Although Millerism was stricken with early failures, comfort lies in the quick recovery and betterment. "The Great Disappointment," recovered to form the modern Pre-millenialist ideas that are present in such religions as the 7th Day Adventists that remain to this day.

Closely linked to the Franciscan millennial world, are Christopher Columbus, and the events surrounding his prophecies and exploration. Columbus, although famous for discovering America, was more concerned with his own religion obligations. He wrote, "God made me the messenger

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Approximate Word count = 1089
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)