Christian fundamentalism began in the late 19th century in response to the works of scientists and philosophers like Darwin and Marx. When did it begin?

• A. In the late 19th century
• B. In the 16th century
• C. In the 14th century
• D. In the 21st century

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is when Christian fundamentalism first began in response to scientific and modern thought. It starts in the late 19th century, a period when Darwin’s theories and new critical approaches to scripture challenged traditional Christian interpretations. In reaction, conservative Christians began to defend biblical authority and core doctrines, laying the groundwork for what would later be labeled fundamentalism. The other dates don’t fit: the 16th and 14th centuries are tied to earlier reform and medieval scholasticism, not the modern challenge from science and critical study, and the 21st century is far too late for the movement’s origins.