The United States is home to a variety of cultures and people, with every major religion represented. Unlike some countries in the world, Americans are free to practice their religion of choice. According to an American Religious Identification Survey conducted in 2001, the four major organized types of religion in America are Christianity, Judaism, Islam and Buddhism.

Christianity
• Christianity is by far the largest organized religion practiced in America, accounting for 76.5 percent of the total population in 2001. A poll the Pew Research Council conducted in 2002 indicated that among American Christianity the largest branches were Protestant, Catholic and Mormon. Christianity is a monotheistic religion whose followers are known as Christians and believe in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Popular holidays Christians in America celebrate include Christmas and Easter.

Judaism
• Judaism is the second largest organized religion in America, accounting for 1.3 percent of the total population in 2001. Followers of Judaism are referred to as Jews. The Jewish faith is monotheistic and follows the teachings of Moses, which in written form is known as the Torah. While Christians believe Jesus Christ was the messiah, Jews do not. They believe the messiah will not be in the form of man. Popular Jewish holidays celebrated in America include Hanukkah and Passover.

Islam
• Islam is the third largest organized religion in America, accounting for 0.5 percent of the total population in 2001. Followers of Islam are known as Muslims. As with Christianity and Judaism, Islam is a monotheistic religion, with its followers believing in one God. The primary text followed by Muslims is the Koran. Muhammad is believed to be the messenger of God. A popular Islamic holiday Muslims in America celebrate is Ramadan.

Buddhism
• Buddhism is the fourth largest organized religion America, accounting for 0.5 percent of the total population in 2001. Followers of Buddhism are known as Buddhists. Buddhism was founded on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, commonly referred to as the Buddha. Buddhists follow the "four noble truths," which teach that suffering is caused by craving and attachment, and when suffering ends nirvana can be attained. Buddhism is non-theistic and focuses on spiritual enlightenment, ethics and meditation, rather than the worshipping of a god.