Which type of influence has been most significant in shaping the distribution of religious groups in the United States?

The most significant influence in shaping the distribution of religious groups in the United States has been immigration patterns. Throughout U.S. history, various waves of immigration have brought diverse religious beliefs and practices to different regions. For instance, early European settlers predominantly practiced Christianity, particularly Protestantism and Catholicism, which established foundational communities.

As newer waves of immigrants arrived, particularly from places like Asia, Latin America, and Africa, they introduced a variety of religions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and others. This influx resulted in concentrated areas where different religious communities formed, such as the high Jewish populations in urban areas or the growth of Hindu temples in regions with significant Indian diasporas.

This dynamic illustrates how immigration patterns have not only added to the diversity of religious practice across the U.S. but have also resulted in geographic concentrations of these groups, heavily influencing local cultures and communities. Economic factors and political legislation can influence religious expression to some extent but are not as significant as the direct impact that immigrant communities have in shaping the religious landscape of the country.