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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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Salvation Army
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Evangelical Christian organization, now worldwide in scope, which evolved from the missionary work in the East End of London of William Booth (1829–1912), who had previously been a Methodist preacher. The name Salvation Army, adopted in 1878, reflected the fact that the mission was organized on military lines, with uniforms, brass bands to attract attention on the streets, and a hierarchy of ranks. Booth himself was the general and after his death was followed in that position by his son, William Bramwell Booth (1856–1929). Popular evangelism has remained the central purpose, with deliberately simple and cheerful services (much clapping and singing, no sacraments), but the 'Sally' also plays an important role in alleviating poverty and distress in the cities. The army's crusading publication, The War Cry, has been published weekly since 1879.
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