To provide some understanding of current reading methodology, this paper traces the history of reading instruction from ancient times to pre-Revolutionary America and examines the influences exerted upon that instruction by religion. The major portion of the paper discusses the cultures, religions, and educational systems of ancient Egypt; Mesopotamia; the Roman Empire; medieval, renaissance, and reformation Europe; England; and Colonial America. The paper concludes that it would be difficult, if not impossible, to separate the religious influences from American reading instruction, since religion has greatly influenced reading materials and instructional methodology, as well as provided the impetus for many people to learn to read. (FL)