Spiritualism in America - History for Genealogists

Spiritualism is a religious movement that emerged in the United States in the mid-19th century. It was based on the belief that spirits of the dead could communicate with the living through mediums, who acted as intermediaries between the two worlds. Spiritualists believed that communication with the dead could provide comfort and guidance to the living, and they developed a complex system of beliefs and practices around this idea.

The origins of Spiritualism can be traced back to the Fox sisters of New York, who claimed to have communicated with the spirit of a murdered peddler in 1848. This event sparked a wave of interest in Spiritualism, and many people began holding séances and seeking out mediums to contact their loved ones who had passed away.

As Spiritualism grew in popularity, it developed its own unique set of beliefs and practices. Spiritualists believed that the soul survived after death and could communicate with the living through mediums. They also believed in reincarnation, and that spirits could return to earth in new bodies.

Spiritualism was often associated with progressive social movements of the time, such as the women's suffrage movement and abolitionism. Many Spiritualists saw their movement as a way to challenge traditional religious institutions and promote a more open-minded and tolerant society.

In the late 19th century, Spiritualism began to decline in popularity as skepticism and criticism grew. Some mediums were exposed as frauds, and many people became disillusioned with the movement. However, Spiritualism still has a small following today, and its beliefs and practices continue to be studied and debated by scholars of religion and history.