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? 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 customs around death, burial, and remembrance, including:

• Influences for American rituals-from medieval Europe, the Roman Empire, and 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

• How technology, religion, media, and even grave robbers have shaped our traditions

• Unknown soldiers-how warfare influenced funeral and bereavement practices … and vice versa

• 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.