With God on their Side: William Booth, The Salvation Army and Skeleton Army Riots

The Salvation Army faced violent riots led by the Skeleton Army in the 1880s and 1890s, causing destruction and injury. James Gardner's book "With God on Their Side" explores the spread of violence in the context of late-Victorian England, examining the motives and actions of both groups and the subsequent shift in the Salvation Army's focus towards social welfare, transforming William Booth from a vilified man to its saint.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2022
Publisher: James Clarke & Co Ltd

The Salvation Army, a revered organization today, has a history that includes a tumultuous period during the late 1880s and early 1890s. Led by the charismatic William Booth, the Salvation Army embarked on an evangelical crusade that stirred strong emotions and sparked violent riots. These riots, orchestrated by an opposition group known as the Skeleton Army, caused widespread destruction, injuries, and even loss of life. The Skeleton Army's mission was to expel Salvationists from their towns, spreading their influence across the South and West of England. Surprisingly, it was often the peaceful parading Salvationists who were imprisoned, rather than the violent rioters.

In his book "With God on Their Side," James Gardner delves into the spread of violence during this period, providing a detailed account of specific towns and their experiences. Through meticulous research, Gardner weaves a rich tapestry of historical narrative that appeals to scholars and enthusiasts alike. The book explores the motives and actions of both the Salvation Army and the Skeleton Army, shedding light on the complex social and political context of late-Victorian England. It also examines the subsequent shift in the Salvation Army's focus towards social welfare, which played a pivotal role in its growth and transformation.

This shift in focus allowed the organization to expand its reach and provide assistance to those in need. It helped transform William Booth from one of the most vilified men of the nineteenth century into a revered figure, known for his unwavering commitment to social justice and his vision of a better world. The Salvation Army's legacy continues to inspire and serve people around the globe, embodying the values of compassion, kindness, and service to others.

Weight: 586g
Dimension: 163 x 242 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780718895914