Author(s): Todd Harra

Culture & Ideas

The Untold Story of American Funeral and Mourning Traditions

Why do we embalm the deceased? Why are funerals so expensive? Is there a reason coffins are shaped the way they are? When--and why--did we start viewing the deceased? Ceremonies for honoring the departed are crucial parts of our lives, but few people know where our traditional practices come from--and what they reveal about our history, culture, and beliefs about death. In Last Rites, author Todd Harra takes you on a fascinating exploration of American funeral practices--examining where they came from, what they mean, and how they are still evolving.

Our conventions around death, burial, and remembrance have undergone many great transitions--sometimes due to technology, respect for tradition, shifting sensibilities, or even to thwart grave robbers. Here you'll explore:

* Influences for American rituals--from medieval Europe, the Roman Empire, and even ancient Egypt
* When mourning fell out of fashion--and how George Washington's passing brought it back
* Abraham Lincoln's landmark funeral and its widespread impact
* Flowers, liquor, mourning gifts, and caskets--the reasons behind our grieving customs
* Unknown soldiers--how warfare influenced funeral and bereavement practices ... and vice versa
* How growing populations, religion, inventions, and media have changed and continue to shape our traditions
* The future of our death rites--mushroom suits, green burial, body donation, flameless cremation, home funerals, and more

The rich story of the American funeral is one of constant evolution. Whether you're planning a funeral service or are simply intrigued by the meaning behind American burial practices, Last Rites is an informative and compelling exploration of the history--and future--of the ceremonies we use to say farewell to those who have departed this world.