The US Bible belt
#TheUSBiblebelt
The U.S. Bible Belt is an informal term that refers to a region in the southern United States where evangelical Protestant Christianity is deeply rooted in both culture and daily life.
It’s known for high church attendance, strong religious conservatism, and significant influence of religion on politics, education, and social values.
Bible Belt – Core States
Though there’s no official boundary, the Bible Belt typically includes:
Core Bible Belt States Extended Areas (sometimes included)
Alabama Missouri
Mississippi Virginia (southern parts)
Tennessee Southern Illinois
Kentucky Southern Ohio
Georgia Northern Florida
South Carolina West Virginia
North Carolina Eastern Texas
Arkansas Oklahoma
Texas (especially East Texas) Kansas (southeastern region)
Louisiana Parts of Indiana and Iowa
Key Characteristics
1. High Religious Observance
• Regular church attendance (especially Baptist, Methodist, and Pentecostal)
• Strong influence of churches in community life
• Bible-based teachings influence education and politics
2. Conservative Social Values
• Generally anti-abortion, pro-family, and pro-gun
• Resistance to secularism and progressive social policies
• School prayer and creationism sometimes supported
3. Political Influence
• Typically votes Republican, especially in national elections
• Evangelical Christians form a large voting bloc
• Issues like same-sex marriage, religious freedom, and abortion are politically mobilizing
Historical Background
• The term “Bible Belt” was popularized by journalist H.L. Mencken in the 1920s.
• The region saw revivalist movements in the 18th and 19th centuries (e.g., the First and Second Great Awakenings).
• Post-Civil War, evangelical Protestantism grew even more influential.
Cultural Legacy
• Home to many megachurches, Christian universities, and televangelists
• Hosts Christian media networks, publishing houses, and political organizations
• Nashville, TN is often called the “Protestant Vatican” for its religious influence
Let me know if you’d like maps, voting patterns, or how the Bible Belt compares to secular regions like the West Coast or Northeast.
