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The history of the Jews: From the war with Rome to the present time

H. C. (Henry Cadwallader) Adams

"The History of the Jews: From the War with Rome to the Present Time" by H. C. Adams is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This book provides a comprehensive overview of Jewish history beginning with their conflict with Rome and extending to contemporary times, as understood by the author. It focuses on the major events, themes, and experiences that have shaped Jewish life through centuries of upheaval and resilience. The opening of the text introduces readers to the author's perspective on Jewish history, emphasizing that it is intended to be a more accessible narrative rather than an academic study. The author expresses his belief that a deep understanding of the Jewish identity cannot be gained without recognizing the unique suffering experienced by the Jewish people over time. He also outlines the contentious debate surrounding the historic responsibility of the Jews for the death of Jesus Christ, emphasizing differing viewpoints within and outside the Jewish faith. The first chapter sets the stage for an exploration of Jewish experiences, touching upon significant events like the siege of Jerusalem and the ensuing struggles against Roman authority that led to their further dispersion and the formation of a global Jewish identity. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

African Colonization by the Free Colored People of the United States, an Indispensable Auxiliary to African Missions. - A Lecture

David Christy

"African Colonization by the Free Colored People of the United States, an Indispensable Auxiliary to African Missions" by David Christy is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The text focuses on the efforts and implications of the American Colonization Society, particularly regarding the establishment of colonies in Africa and their relationship to Christian missions. It explores topics such as the conditions of freed and enslaved peoples in the United States and the challenges and successes of missionary work in Liberia. The opening portion of the work sets the stage for an in-depth examination of African missions, specifically addressing misconceptions about the role of colonization as a barrier to evangelism. Christy outlines the historical context of the American Colonization Society and highlights the figures and events instrumental in establishing Liberia as a mission field. The text reflects on the significant challenges faced by early missionaries, including the resilience of heathen customs, societal norms such as polygamy, and external socio-political factors that impacted the spread of Christianity. Christy’s narrative establishes a foundation for understanding the intertwined destinies of African colonization and missionary work, emphasizing the moral and spiritual urgency of the mission's goals as they seek to transform both the colonized land and its people. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Speeches & Table-Talk of the Prophet Mohammad

Prophet Muhammad

"The Speeches & Table-Talk of the Prophet Mohammad" by Stanley Lane-Poole is a historical collection written in the late 19th century. This work aims to present the most significant and memorable proclamations of the Prophet Mohammad, making accessible to readers the essence of his teachings and thoughts. The book seeks to clarify common misconceptions about the Prophet and his message, offering insights into the dimensions of his character and beliefs. At the start of the text, the author discusses the purpose and significance of the collection. Lane-Poole outlines the challenges posed by existing translations of the Quran, suggesting that many readers may hold prejudiced views that stem from those interpretations. He emphasizes the need to understand Mohammad's teachings without the clutter of personal disputes or historical context that obscures their universal appeal. The opening portion sets the stage for an exploration of the Prophet's life and the socio-religious landscape of his time, preparing readers for a deep dive into the speeches that reflect his profound impact on both faith and society. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Confessions of the Czarina

Princess Radziwill, Catherine

"Confessions of the Czarina" by Count Paul Vassili is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative focuses on the life of Alexandra Feodorowna, the last Empress of Russia, exploring her marriage to Nicholas II and the complexities of her position within the Romanov dynasty amidst the political turmoil leading to the Russian Revolution. The opening portion sets the stage for Alexandra's life before and after her marriage. It details the ailing health of Czar Alexander III and the urgent necessity of his son, Nicholas, to find a bride, leading to Alexandra's betrothal. As the story unfolds, it portrays her emotions regarding her new position in Russia, her struggles with loneliness, and her attempts to navigate the intricate dynamics of the Russian court. The reader is introduced to the tensions with her mother-in-law and the expectations placed upon her as Empress, hinting at the deep sense of isolation and the challenges she faced in trying to fit into a world that often viewed her with suspicion and disdain. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Gate of Remembrance - The Story of the Psychological Experiment which Resulted in the Discovery of the Edgar Chapel at Glastonbury

Frederick Bligh Bond

"The Gate of Remembrance" by Frederick Bligh Bond is an archaeological investigation combined with a psychological study written in the early 20th century. This work recounts the discovery of the Edgar Chapel at Glastonbury Abbey, exploring the intersection of automated writing and historical fact through the lens of spiritual inquiry. The book offers insights into both the history of the Abbey and the methodology employed by the author in retrieving lost architectural knowledge. The opening of the book establishes the historical significance of Glastonbury Abbey as a site of early Christian faith and scholarship, navigating through its tumultuous past marked by the dissolution of monasteries and the loss of religious relics. It introduces readers to Bond's collaboration with a friend, John Alleyne, as they employ automatic writing to unlock memories related to the Abbey's construction and subsequent transformations. This method aims to bridge the gap between modern understanding and ancient wisdom, suggesting that the residue of past spiritual energies still holds valuable insights for contemporary exploration of lost histories. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Indian Myth and Legend

Donald A. (Donald Alexander) Mackenzie

"Indian Myth and Legend" by Donald A. Mackenzie is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the rich tapestry of Indian mythology, drawing heavily from Sanskrit literature and examining the complexities of the beliefs and traditions of ancient India, including the foundational texts of Brahmanism, Buddhism, and Jainism. With a focus on the figures and narratives that have shaped Indian cultural identity, Mackenzie delves into how these myths influence contemporary Hindu thought. The opening of the text introduces the reader to the foundational elements of Indian mythology and explains the significance of India’s historical context. Mackenzie outlines the significance of sacred texts like the Vedas, and with reference to notable deities such as Indra, he sets the stage for an exploration of India's mythological landscape. He discusses early societal structures, religious practices, and the origins of notable customs, while recognizing the interplay between myth and the sociopolitical fabric of the time. This establishes a comprehensive background for readers new to Indian mythology, planting the seeds for deeper examination of specific deities and legends in the chapters that follow. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

History of the Jews, Vol. 1 (of 6)

Heinrich Graetz

"History of the Jews, Vol. 1 (of 6)" by Heinrich Graetz is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume covers the history of the Jewish people from their earliest origins through to the death of Simon the Maccabee, providing a comprehensive narrative of the cultural, social, and religious development of the Jewish nation. The text serves to enlighten readers about the struggles, triumphs, and historical significance of the Jewish experience over thousands of years. The opening of the work introduces the early period of Jewish history, focusing on the Israelites' entry into Canaan, a land inhabited by various tribes including the Anakim and Canaanites. It describes the formation of the Israelite nation amid formidable challenges and the pivotal role of their patriarchs, particularly the prominence of Moses as a leader and prophet. Graetz highlights the significant events, such as the Exodus from Egypt, the revelation of the Decalogue at Mount Sinai, and the critical military victories that shaped the Jewish people's identity and their understanding of divine promise and moral law. The narrative sets the stage for the broader historical explorations and transformations that are to follow in the subsequent chapters. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The unknown life of Jesus Christ : the original text of Nicolas Notovitch's 1877 discovery

Nicolas Notovitch

"The Unknown Life of Jesus Christ" by Nicolas Notovitch is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the lesser-known aspects of Jesus Christ's life, particularly focusing on Notovitch's travels in Tibet, where he claims to have discovered ancient texts about Jesus. The author delves into these chronicles to shed light on the life of Jesus from a perspective not typically found in Christian teachings. At the start of the narrative, Notovitch recounts his travels across the Orient, specifically his journey to Tibet during 1887, driven by a quest for knowledge about ancient manuscripts concerning Jesus. He shares his encounters with Buddhist monks who tell him about significant texts archived in Lhasa that discuss the life of Jesus, referred to by them as "Issa." As he continues his journey through mountainous regions and villages, he experiences various cultural and religious practices that draw parallels between Buddhism and Christianity, hinting at a deep exploration of the spiritual connections between the two religions. This opening portion sets up Notovitch’s investigation into the life and teachings of Jesus as seen through the lens of Tibetan Buddhism and promises an intriguing account of his findings. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The Grounds of Christianity Examined by Comparing The New Testament with the Old

George Bethune English

"The Grounds of Christianity Examined by Comparing the New Testament with the Old" by George Bethune English is a historical and theological analysis written in the early 19th century. This work critically evaluates the claims of Christianity, particularly how the New Testament relates to Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah. The author embarks on an examination of the arguments presented by early Christian writers and apologists, aiming to determine whether the character of Jesus of Nazareth aligns with the messianic predictions provided by the Hebrew prophets. The opening portion of the text sets the stage for an intellectual exploration of Christianity's foundations, emphasizing the importance of understanding and validating religious beliefs through reasoned examination. In the preface, English articulates the necessity for open discourse about sacred doctrines, arguing that truth will ultimately prevail through rigorous scrutiny rather than through blind acceptance. He introduces the central thesis that the Messiah’s attributes—foretold in the Old Testament—must align with Jesus to substantiate Christian claims. The opening chapters outline the argumentative structure, where English intends to offer a thorough analysis of both the New Testament's assertions about Jesus and the Old Testament prophecies that purportedly support those claims. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Twelve Studies on the Making of a Nation: The Beginnings of Israel's History

Charles Foster Kent

"Twelve Studies on the Making of a Nation: The Beginnings of Israel's History" by Charles Foster Kent and Jeremiah Whipple Jenks is a collection of academic studies written in the early 20th century. The book examines the foundational narratives of Israel as derived from biblical accounts, reflecting on their historical, social, and moral significance for both ancient and modern readers. Its likely focus is on how these narratives shaped the identity and ideals of a nascent Israel and their implications for contemporary society. At the start of the book, the authors introduce the vital role the Bible plays in addressing societal and moral issues throughout history. They emphasize a renewed understanding of scripture as a guide for modern civilization while challenging past dogmatic interpretations that have obscured its true message. The opening chapters outline the intention behind the studies, aiming to bridge scholarly examination with contemporary application. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of biblical stories, including creation, sin, and the moral responsibilities of humanity, establishing a framework for discussing Israel's heritage and its relevance today. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Chronicles of the house of Borgia

Frederick Rolfe

"Chronicles of the house of Borgia" by Frederick Rolfe is a historical account written in the early 20th century. It reassesses the Borgia dynasty within the tumultuous world of the Italian Renaissance and papal power, challenging lurid legends and arguing from close scrutiny of sources as it traces the family’s rise from Spain to Rome, especially under Popes Calixtus III and Alexander VI. The opening of the book sets out Rolfe’s stance: great houses rise and fall swiftly, the Borgias have been used as a canvas for exaggeration, and many chroniclers are biased, so the narrative will weigh testimony and strip away calumny. The story then begins in 1455, amid the shock of Constantinople’s fall and the influx of Greek learning into Italy, contrasting Nicholas V’s cultural flowering with Rome’s alarm at the Turkish threat. Rolfe details the conclave after Nicholas’s death: factions led by Colonna and Orsini, the near-choice of Bessarion, and the compromise election of the Spanish canonist Alonso de Borja as Calixtus III. A concise genealogy introduces the Borja roots in Valencia, explains contemporary norms about legitimacy, and sketches Alonso’s service to King Alfonso of Aragon and his diplomatic skill in ending schisms. The narrative dramatizes Calixtus’s coronation and the Orsini-led riot at the Lateran, then portrays him as austere, legally minded, and focused on a crusade rather than arts—refuting the tale that he dispersed the Vatican library and illustrating his patronage through the Lorenzo Valla episode. It closes with his firm handling of Emperor Frederick’s envoys and his public vow to wage relentless war against the Turks. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Kurze Geschichte und Beschreibung der k.k. Pfarrkirche zum heiligen Carl Borromäus in Wien in der Vorstadt Wieden, nebst einigen Zügen aus dem Leben des heiligen Carl Borromäus

Anonymous

"Kurze Geschichte und Beschreibung der k.k. Pfarrkirche zum heiligen Carl…" is a commemorative ecclesiastical booklet written in the early 19th century. It offers a devotional historical account and architectural description of Vienna’s church dedicated to St. Charles Borromeo, likely composed for a jubilee of its consecration. The book’s topic is the founding, consecration, architecture, artworks, and later history of the church, together with a concise hagiographic sketch of its patron saint. The narrative opens with Emperor Charles VI’s vow during a devastating plague to build a church in honor of St. Charles Borromeo, followed by the choice of site, the plan by Fischer von Erlach, the laying of the foundation, and the completion and solemn consecration under Cardinal Kollonitz, including the dedication of the high altar, six side altars, and the blessing of eight bells. It then traces the church’s stewardship by the Knights of the Cross with the Red Star, the endowment under Maria Theresa, elevation to a parish under Joseph II, and notable restorations, culminating in a jubilee context. A detailed tour describes the monumental façade with portico, dome, and twin narrative columns, the luminous interior with Rottmayr’s frescoes, altarpieces by Pellegrini, Ricci, Gran, Van Stippen, and Altomonte, imperial oratories, and treasured relics of the saint. The appended life of St. Charles highlights his reforming zeal, disciplined piety, pastoral leadership in Milan—especially his self-sacrificing response during a plague—his death and enduring veneration. The book concludes with a prayer and a nine-day order of services for the centennial celebration. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The life and times of the Rev. John Wesley, M.A., founder of the Methodists. Vol. 3 (of 3)

L. (Luke) Tyerman

"The life and times of the Rev. John Wesley, M.A., founder of the Methodists.…." by Rev. L. Tyerman is a historical biography written in the late 19th century. It chronicles John Wesley’s later years and the expansion of Methodism through his travels, letters, sermons, and conferences, highlighting disputes over Calvinism, Christian perfection, and adherence to the Church of England. Drawing on journals and correspondence, it shows how Wesley organized and financed the movement while extending its reach in Britain and abroad. The opening of the volume concentrates on 1768, tracing Wesley at 65 through conciliatory exchanges with Whitefield and Berridge, counsel to Lady Huntingdon, the sermon “The Good Steward,” and an energetic tour from Chatham to the North and into Scotland preaching to soldiers and vast crowds. It presents his belief in supernatural testimony (via the Sunderland apparition case), firm advocacy of Christian perfection without separating from the Church, and a stream of pointed letters (to Fletcher, his brother Charles, and critics like Thomas Adam). It prints his 1768 will and recounts the Bristol Conference—framed by his urgent dash to visit his ailing wife—which set policies on preachers trading, revived field and early-morning preaching, enforced discipline, fasting, and pastoral visitation. The narrative also touches overseas beginnings through Laurence Coughlan’s work in Newfoundland, the Oxford student expulsions and ensuing pamphlet war, and the opening of Lady Huntingdon’s Trevecca college. Throughout, decisions about chapels (such as retaining Spitalfields), burdensome debts, and even congregational singing reveal the practical strains of a rapidly growing movement. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Error's chains : How forged and broken : A comparative history of the national, social and religious errors that mankind has fallen into and practised from the creation down to the present time.

Frank S. (Frank Stockton) Dobbins

"Error''s chains : How forged and broken : A comparative history of the…" by Frank S. Dobbins is a comparative religious history written in the late 19th century. Aimed at general readers and richly illustrated, it surveys how humanity moved from an original monotheism into nature-worship, polytheism, and idolatry across civilizations, contrasting these with Christianity. Drawing on sacred texts, folklore, archaeology, and travel accounts, it traces global beliefs, myths, and rituals to show how “error” was forged and how it might be remedied. The opening of the work sets out its popular purpose, sources, and scope, then argues that humanity began with one God and later declined into many gods and idols. The preface promises a readable, illustrated tour of world religions, credits scholarly helpers, and states a Christian aim: to heighten appreciation for biblical faith and concern for the “heathen” world. Chapter I presents two witnesses for an original unity—an “old record” (Genesis) and the kinship of languages—then uses comparative folklore (the “Master Thief” cycle in Norse, Egyptian, Hindu, Spanish, and Scottish variants) to argue for a common cultural origin before the dispersion from Babel; it also notes widespread “golden age” memories and traces of a supreme deity. Chapter II explains the transition from monotheism to nature-worship and personification of the elements, quotes early hymns (Varuna, Indra, Agni, Surya) and prayers, and sketches how idols likely arose (from aids to devotion and sacred stones to animal and human forms like teraphim, Dagon, and serpent images). Chapter III begins compiling creation and flood traditions—from Chaldean Xisuthrus and Hindu Manu to Chinese Fuh-he, Mexican Coxcox/Tezpi, Fijian and North American tales, and Greek Deucalion—using their shared contours to reinforce the biblical narrative, and it moves toward the Babel story as the next link. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

A dissertation on the true age of the world : in which is determined the chronology of the period from creation to the Christian era

R. (Robert) Wallace

"A dissertation on the true age of the world : in which is determined the…" by Professor Wallace is a theological and chronological treatise written in the mid-19th century. It argues that the Septuagint’s longer genealogical numbers, rather than the Masoretic Hebrew’s shorter figures, preserve the authentic Biblical chronology from Creation to Christ, thereby lengthening the world’s age by about fifteen centuries. Using Scripture, patristic testimony, early chronographers, and selective astronomical and geological reflections, it divides sacred history into six ages and seeks to fix key epochs such as the Flood, the Exodus, and the Advent. Readers should expect a rigorous defense of the Septuagint, critiques of Usher and other modern chronologers, and discussion of prophecy, cyclical time, and the millennium. The opening of the treatise sets out the problem: large discrepancies between the Hebrew, Septuagint, and Samaritan texts in the antediluvian and postdiluvian genealogies, a long-debated issue now made urgent by geology, astronomy, and renewed interest in prophecy. The preface outlines two parts—first, a critical reconstruction of Biblical chronology (leaning on Cuninghame and engaging Josephus, Eusebius, and others); second, an inquiry into primeval prophecy, idolatry’s origins, and the “seven ages,” with hints of astronomical cycles (including a proposed grand planetary cycle) deferred to a future volume. The introduction notes the widespread expectation of a savior at the time of Christ and claims Scripture allows the epoch to be fixed, then sketches the authority and utility of the Septuagint over against the present Hebrew text. Early chapters present tables contrasting the three textual traditions, argue that the Hebrew and Samaritan numbers show deliberate centenary adjustments while the Septuagint’s figures are internally coherent, defend the authenticity of the “second Cainan” (citing Luke), and begin correcting received views on Terah and Abraham—altogether preparing the case for the longer, Septuagint-based timeline. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The censorship of the Church of Rome and its influence upon the production and distribution of literature, volume 2 (of 2)

George Haven Putnam

The censorship of the Church of Rome and its influence upon the production and… by George Haven Putnam is a historical study written in the early 20th century. It examines how the Roman Catholic Church’s Index, Inquisition, and related decrees shaped what could be printed, sold, and read, and contrasts these with Protestant and state censorship. The work focuses on the practical machinery of prohibition and expurgation and its consequences for theology, scholarship, and the book trade. The opening of this study maps the territory: first, it surveys seventeenth- and early eighteenth‑century theological controversies in France, the Netherlands, England, and Germany, showing how Protestant writers and even specific “propositions” were condemned through the Index. It then outlines how Scripture was controlled—tracing early printing and Erasmus’s editions, national cases in France, the Low Countries, Spain, and England, the banning of vernacular Bibles, occasional relaxations (1757), and later renewed restrictions (1836). Next, it reviews censorship around the monastic orders: inter‑order quarrels suppressed; extensive debate over Jesuit casuistry and the doctrine of grace (Molina vs. Bañez); the Dominicans’ dominance in censorship and the Reuchlin affair; rules against confession by letter; and disputes between secular clergy and regulars. Finally, it explains the Roman Index under Benedict XIV (1758): its rules, the new reliance on “general decrees” that condemned whole classes of books, examples of notable inclusions and omissions, and the persistent bibliographical and practical limits of the Index system itself. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Storia della città di Roma nel medio evo, vol. 2/8 : dal secolo V al XVI

Ferdinand Gregorovius

"Storia della città di Roma nel medio evo, vol. 2/8 : dal secolo V al XVI" by Ferdinando Gregorovius is a historical account written in the late 19th century. It traces Rome’s transformation in the early Middle Ages, from the collapse of the ancient civic order to the ascendancy of the papacy, the spread of monasticism, and the city’s struggles between Byzantine authority and Lombard pressure. Figures such as Benedict of Nursia and Gregory the Great exemplify how religious institutions replaced imperial structures and reshaped urban life. Expect a richly detailed political, ecclesiastical, and urban narrative rather than character-driven storytelling. The opening of this volume paints a stark tableau of a ruined Rome—temples crumbling, forums silent, baths stripped—while the Church rises as the city’s only vigilant organizer and protector behind Aurelian’s walls. It recounts Benedict’s retreat to Subiaco, the founding of Monte Cassino atop a former pagan site, the crafting of his Rule, and the swift spread of monastic life (from Cassiodorus’s Vivarium to Roman convents fostered by patrician women), culminating in Benedictines sheltered at the Lateran after the Lombards raze Monte Cassino. The narrative then follows the Lombard advance, the embattled pontificates of Benedict I and Pelagius II, and appeals to Constantinople, with Gregory dispatched as apocrisiarius. Flood and plague ravage the city; Pelagius dies, and the rebuilding of San Lorenzo marks the era’s piety amid disaster. Gregory’s election ushers in penitential processions and the legend of the archangel sheathing his sword atop Hadrian’s mausoleum to end the pestilence. Finally, his first sermons read like a funeral oration over Rome as Agilulf and Ariulf press the siege, while he buys off the enemy, clashes diplomatically with the exarch and emperor, and the text sketches the fragile civic framework—prefect, magister militum, and the near-silence surrounding a vanished Senate. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

King and commonwealth : A history of Charles I. and the great rebellion

Bertha Meriton Gardiner

"King and commonwealth : A history of Charles I. and the great rebellion" by B. Meriton Cordery and J. Surtees Phillpotts is a historical account written in the late 19th century. It examines the constitutional and religious conflicts that escalated from the late Tudor settlement through James I to the crisis under Charles I, culminating in civil war. The focus is on how monarchic prerogative collided with parliamentary rights, the law courts, and church governance, with figures like Buckingham and measures such as the Petition of Right at the fore. The opening of the work sets out the English constitutional framework—legislative, executive, and judicial—and shows how English liberties (consent to taxation, jury trial, and due process) coexisted uneasily with royal prerogatives, pliant judges, and arbitrary courts like Star Chamber and High Commission. It contrasts Elizabeth’s cautious use of power with growing religious tensions: Puritans attacking “popish” ceremonies, Presbyterians demanding church government by assemblies, and sectarians pressing for liberty of conscience, while Elizabeth’s Protestant foreign policy (and the Armada’s defeat) keeps popular support. Under James I, the narrative highlights illegal impositions, coercive ecclesiastical procedure, arbitrary imprisonments (including Arabella Stuart), corruption illustrated by the Eliot–Nutt pirate case, the persecution of Puritans, and James’s wavering response to the Thirty Years’ War; Parliament asserts free speech in 1621 only to have its protest erased. The section then turns to Charles I’s accession: Buckingham’s dominance, Parliament’s one-year grant of tonnage and poundage, anger over English ships lent against the Huguenots, the failed Cadiz expedition, and the Commons’ impeachment of Buckingham, which Charles thwarts by arresting managers and dissolving Parliament. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Le Pape et l'antisémitisme : Interview de Léon XIII

Séverine

"Le Pape et l'antisémitisme : Interview de Léon XIII by Séverine" is a journalistic interview and reportage written in the late 19th century. The piece probes the Vatican’s stance on antisemitism through a rare audience with Pope Leo XIII, blending on-the-ground observation with pointed questions. Its likely topic is the Pope’s view on antisemitism, the Church’s mission toward non-Christians, and the relationship between faith, politics, and social justice. The text follows the reporter’s path into the Vatican, her vivid portrait of the Pope, and a carefully phrased dialogue about religion and race. Leo XIII insists that Christ shed his blood for all and that the Church must persuade, not persecute; he rejects the very notion of a “war of religion” and dismisses racial divisions as irrelevant before God, recalling how Popes protected Jews and how clergy aided the Roman ghetto. He warns against the tyranny of money, declares solidarity with the humble rather than the powerful, and affirms that the Church seeks souls, not political rule. He expresses affection for France, listens with amused candor to how various French factions view him, and disavows a cleric who urged Alsace-Lorrainers to forget the motherland. The audience closes with a blessing, leaving a portrait of a gentle yet firm spiritual leader who “does not approve” of hatred and stands for mercy and fraternity. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

The patriarch of one hundred years : being reminiscences, historical and biographical, of Rev. Henry Boehm

Henry Boehm

"The patriarch of one hundred years : being reminiscences, historical and…." by Rev. J. B. Wakeley, D.D. is a historical and biographical memoir written in the late 19th century. It presents the life and ministry of Rev. Henry Boehm, using his extensive journals to portray early American Methodism, its pioneers, revivals, and circuits, culminating in his centennial celebrations. Readers can expect vivid portraits of figures like Bishop Francis Asbury and accounts of frontier evangelism, camp-meetings, and the growth of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The opening of the volume lays out the project’s origin: Boehm explains in a preface that, urged by church leaders and aided by Wakeley, he shaped a massive journal into a narrative meant to preserve the spirit and facts of “primitive Methodism.” A table of contents promises a life told through circuits, conferences, and key personalities. The first chapters recount Boehm’s Swiss Mennonite ancestry, his father Martin’s conversion and eventual role with the United Brethren and Methodists, and Henry’s own upbringing, schooldays under a Hessian teacher, conversion in a mill loft, and the misstep of delaying church membership. He then sketches early preachers (notably Robert Strawbridge and the fiery Benjamin Abbott) and describes the building and influence of Boehm’s Chapel, where a revival led him to join the Church and become a class leader. Subsequent chapters narrate the General Conference of 1800 in Baltimore and the Philadelphia Conference at Duck Creek, both marked by powerful revivals and the election of Richard Whatcoat; the history of Barratt’s Chapel and Boehm’s vow of consecration during a bout of illness; and his early itinerant work on Dorchester and Annamessex Circuits, where sweeping awakenings among white and Black worshipers are punctuated by striking anecdotes (a preacher lost in the Cypress Swamp, a hawk dropping a fish for dinner). The extract closes as he moves to Kent Circuit, honors early lights like William Gill and John Smith, and visits the dying father of Shadrach Bostwick, pausing even to exhort a gathered roadside crowd when a house meeting is canceled. (This is an automatically generated summary.)