Thousands are active today seeking to make the world a better place. It is a great American tradition that goes back hundreds of years. Sometimes such reform movements were very effective and sometimes they weren't. What made the difference? How come some grand ideals were fulfilled and others faded away? Tim Stafford explores the patterns of successful and failed reform movements to highlight what activists today can learn. How can activists keep from burning out? How can they avoid the lure of violence? What are ways to engage politics that are at once practical and ethical? The great American reform movements of the last two centuries have an abundance of down-to-earth guidance to offer on these and other vital questions. Tim Stafford weaves the stories of the abolitionist movement, the temperance movement, the suffrage movement and the civil rights movement into this readable and practical study with application to those today who are motivated by the gospel to make a difference in the world. Market/Audience Culture-watchers History buffs Mission and evangelism organizations Missionaries Endorsements "Tim Stafford helps us pause, reflect and learn from both the wisdom and folly of that colourful past." PHILIP YANCEY "Insightful, probing reflection on Christian activist struggles to change America. Wisely cautionary, firmly encouraging. A must-read for all activists who want to change the world." RONALD J. SIDER, president, Evangelicals for Social Action Features and Benefits Highlights key principles to guide Christian activists today Offers the opportunity to learn from history rather than repeat its mistakes Provides a readable overview of some of the key reform movements in American history