When Funerals became Celebrations of Life

​Funerals in America have gradually transformed from solemn gatherings to more personalized celebrations of life. In earlier times, funerals were deeply rooted in religious customs, emphasizing mourning and a focus on the afterlife. However, the 20th century brought about significant changes, with the rise of funeral homes, new embalming techniques, and an increasingly secular society.
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The shift toward celebrating life instead of focusing solely on death began as people desired more personalized ceremonies, commemorating their loved ones through memories, hobbies, and passions. This move was fueled by the increasing secularization of society and the emphasis on individualism. As people sought to honor their loved ones in ways that reflected their unique lives, celebrations of life gained popularity. Today, these events are often lighter, with uplifting music, favorite photos, and stories shared by family and friends. Much like the services we offer here at Memorial-Videos.com!

The wake was traditionally a meeting of friends and family the night before a burial to make sure that the deceased did not awaken. The term ‘wake’ came literally from the practice of confirming that the person did not wake up! It was often accompanied by plenty of food and drink.

In the 19th century, the funeral industry begun to expand as towns grew into cities, and local cemeteries ran out of burial space. When Abraham Lincoln was killed and his body was taken on a two-week long procession, his body was embalmed for preservation along the trip. Embalming soon became a common practice, and the care of the deceased became a proper industry, with many seeking to become licensed undertakers. Funeral protection laws were subsequently enacted to protect from families from misleading practices such as requiring itemized lists.

Modern funeral services offer greater flexibility, allowing people to incorporate elements that celebrate the deceased's personality and achievements. Although some critics worry this trend downplays the importance of grieving, many families find comfort in remembering their loved ones with joy rather than sorrow.
In essence, celebrations of life reflect society’s evolving approach to death, focusing not just on loss but on honoring a life well-lived. This modern approach helps families cope with grief while cherishing positive memories.
Read more about the evolution of American funeral customs on this blog by the Library of Congress here: https://blogs.loc.gov/law/2022/09/evolution-of-american-funerary-customs-and-laws/
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