A 19th-century movement characterized by its fervent anticipation of the Second Coming of Christ.
Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Adventist (precursor)
Founder: William Miller
Founded: 1831
Ended: 1845
Location: Northeastern United States, especially New York
Size: 100,000
Offshoots: Several groups, including the Seventh-day Adventist Church and the Advent Christian Church
Other Names: Millerite Movement
The Millerites emerged in the early 19th century, within the fervor of the Second Great Awakening in the United States, founded by William Miller, a farmer from New York who became an influential preacher. Miller, initially a deist, turned to intense Biblical study, especially of prophecy, and became convinced of the imminent return of Christ. His interpretation of the Bible, particularly the books of Daniel and Revelation, led him to predict that the Second Coming would occur between 1843 and 1844.
The movement saw rapid growth due to the efforts of Miller and his associates, notably Joshua Vaughan Himes, who was instrumental in publicizing Miller’s predictions. Himes, a pastor and publisher, utilized the power of the press to spread Millerite beliefs through periodicals such as the “Signs of the Times,” and other publications, which played a critical role in the movement’s expansion. The Millerites published various papers targeting different audiences, including women and academic circles, and distributed millions of copies of their literature across the United States and abroad.
However, after it attracted a strong community of believers, the Millerite movement faced a significant challenge when Christ did not return as expected in 1844, an event that came to be known as the “Great Disappointment.” Miller had set a specific date for the Second Coming—October 22, 1844—leading many followers to sell their possessions in anticipation. The passing of this date without the prophesied event led to disillusionment among many followers. However, a core group remained steadfast, leading to the formation of several Adventist denominations, the most notable being the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, which still thrives today.
The Millerite movement not only played a significant role in the development of Adventism but also influenced broader social reform movements of the time. The Panic of 1837 had left many disillusioned with the prevailing social order, and Millerite millennialism offered a vision of divine justice and renewal. This vision inspired leaders in movements for abolitionism, prison reform, and other causes, contributing to a wave of social activism imbued with religious fervor.
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