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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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friendly societies
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Groups organized for mutual benefit, locally based and often secret, which were common in Britain from the 18C. They were formed partly for social reasons but primarily to provide members and their families with financial support in case of sickness or on death. One of the oldest and most widespread is the Oddfellows, founded at some time before 1745. The number and importance of the societies decreased after the introduction of the *welfare state.
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