religion

This book will give readers a better understanding of the daily lives of plantation slaves, along with the oppression and challenges that they faced.

All slavery was ended through passage of the Thirteenth Amendment in 1865.

Journalist Christopher Hitchens explains why he believes religion "poisons everything," and presents his arguments for a more secular approach to life.

Explores the history of Judaism, including the beliefs, holidays, ceremonies, and more.

Explores the history of Christianity, including the beliefs, branches, the Bible, and more.

Explores the history of Buddhism, including the beliefs, practices, festivals, and more.

Photographs and easy-to-follow text provide an introduction to religions, and briefly describes different spiritual ways and traditions from around the world.

As one of the world's oldest still practiced religions, Judaism has an illustrious history of fascinating, yet often misunderstood, beliefs and practices. Though it has only fourteen million followers today, Judaism is the basis of the Abrahamic religions, and as such influenced the core teachings of Christianity and Islam. Offers readers a clear, yet thorough survey of Judaism's history, practices, and teachings. The significance of Rosh Hashana, Passover, and other Jewish festivals is covered, as well as cultural movements such as Zionism. Readers will also learn of atrocities carried out against the Jewish people, including the Holocaust, and learn about episodes of Anti-Semitism.

Over 1,400 years ago, the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad gave way to a community of followers who have since grown to the second-largest religion in the world today. The word "Islam" itself means "submission," and Muslims are those who submit themselves to the teachings of Muhammad and the Koran. Introduces readers to the primary beliefs and practices of a widely misunderstood religion, including the role of prayer, Mecca, and holidays such as Ramadan. In addition to its history, there is a spread dedicated to the important role of Muslim-Americans in U.S. society.

With over two billion adherents worldwide, Christianity is the most widespread religion in the world today. It is also the largest religious group in the United States and Canada. In this accessible, highly illustrated book, the history, teachings, and practices of Christianity are explained. Each of the major periods and branches of Christianity are covered, offering readers a view of the religion's scope and the diverse ways it is celebrated and practiced around the globe.