Last Rites

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? Whenâ"and whyâ"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 fromâ"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 practicesâ"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 transitionsâ"sometimes due to technology, respect for tradition, shifting sensibilities, or even to thwart grave robbers. Here youâll explore:

⢠Influences for American ritualsâ"from medieval Europe, the Roman Empire, and even ancient Egypt
⢠When mourning fell out of fashionâ"and how George Washingtonâs passing brought it back
⢠Abraham Lincolnâs landmark funeral and its widespread impact
⢠Flowers, liquor, mourning gifts, and casketsâ"the reasons behind our grieving customs
⢠Unknown soldiersâ"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 ritesâ"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 youâre 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 historyâ"and futureâ"of the ceremonies we use to say farewell to those who have departed this world.