Once upon a time in alt.atheism, dear sweet Blak (skin@color.org) made the
light shine upon us with this:

Although denials of God's existence have been sporadic throughout
history, it is only in recent centuries that the popularity of atheism
has spread. Do you know why?

It could be an increase in higher education. Or the result of the much
increased ability of the worldwide media in the last hundred years to reach
audiences electronically, so they can actually see the horrors of religion
in action for themselves.

--
Uncle Vic