Charles Grandison Finney (August 29, 1792 – August 16, 1875) was an American Presbyterian minister and leader in the Second Great Awakening in the United States. He has been called "The Father of Modern Revivalism." Finney was known for his innovations in preaching and religious meetings during the 19th century, which included measures to promote revivals and increase church membership, such as the "anxious bench" (a place for potential converts to sit and receive prayer), and the use of laymen to visit and pray with the unconverted. His theological views skewed towards Arminianism, emphasizing free will and rejecting certain Calvinist doctrines. Finney was also a professor and second president of Oberlin College in Ohio, which became a center for abolitionist activities. He was an advocate for social reforms, particularly in the anti-slavery movement. Finney's sermons underscored the importance of personal piety and responsibility, and he emphasized the role of human choice in salvation. His influence on American evangelicalism was significant, affecting theological and social aspects of the religious landscape in the country.