What key event occurred in 1837 concerning Old School and New School Presbyterians?

The key event that occurred in 1837 concerning Old School and New School Presbyterians was the General Assembly schism. This significant split within the Presbyterian Church was primarily driven by theological disagreements and varying approaches to issues like revivalism and the role of the church in society.

The Old School faction favored a more traditionalist approach, emphasizing theological orthodoxy and a somewhat cautious stance towards the revival movements of the time. In contrast, the New School faction was more open to emotional expressions of faith and the revivalist practices that were prominent during that era. This schism highlighted both doctrinal and practical differences between the two groups, leading to a separation that would shape the future of the Presbyterian denomination in America.

Regarding the other options, the formation of the Presbyterian Church of the USA occurred later, while the establishment of seminary schools predates the schism and represents a broader movement within the church that includes various educational initiatives. The first published confession of faith also occurred long before 1837 and does not specifically pertain to the conflict between these factions at that time.