A merica-the land of the free-has from its earliest days spawned and nurtured a wide range of new or alternative religions. Often veering from traditional roots or seeking to find their way back toward the center, these religious fringe groups have a fascinating story long overlooked In many treatments of American history.

Richard Kyle here traces the origins and development of alternative religions, showing their influence on American culture. Previous books have focused on sociological analysis or theological evaluation of these groups that are often put under the headings of cults or the occult. Kyle instead focuses on historical description of what these groups belleve and practice. and what conditions allow them to flourish.

Here is a book for all who wish to be informed about an important part of American religious history.