Methodism is a movement within Protestant Christianity represented by a number of denominations and organisations.

The Methodist movement traces its origin to the evangelical awakening in 18th century Great Britain. Methodism followed from the work of John Wesley, who was an Anglican clergyman.

Thus "Methodism" is commonly taken as "Wesleyan Methodism". Wesley sought to keep Methodism as a revival movement within the Church of England, and a significant number of Anglican clergy were known as Methodists.

Other 18th century branches of Methodism include Welsh Methodists, later the Calvinistic Methodists, from the work of Howell Harris, and the Countess of Huntingdon's Connexion through the work of George Whitefield.

The influence of Lady Huntingdon and Whitefield on the Church of England was a factor in the establishing of the Free Church of England in 1844. Through vigorous missionary activity Methodism spread throughout the British Empire, the United States, and beyond.