Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution of American funeral customs in the 21st century, highlighting a shift towards more personalized and diverse practices that reflect individual beliefs and values regarding death and memorialization [5][28]. Group 1: Historical Context of American Funeral Practices - In the 20th century, American funeral customs were characterized by a standardized approach, heavily influenced by a fear of death and a tendency to conceal it from public life [7][12]. - The Civil War marked a significant turning point in American funeral practices, leading to the professionalization of the funeral industry and the widespread adoption of embalming techniques [11][12]. - By the 1960s, approximately 95% of deceased individuals underwent embalming, establishing a norm for American funerals that included body viewing and preservation [12]. Group 2: Changes in 21st Century Funeral Practices - Since the turn of the century, there has been a notable rise in green burial practices, with many Americans expressing a growing disinterest in embalming due to environmental concerns [14][15]. - The concept of "natural burial" has gained traction, with eco-friendly burial sites using biodegradable materials and avoiding harmful chemicals [15][16]. - The popularity of cremation has surged, with a cremation rate reaching 21% by 1995, and some states reporting rates as high as 50% [17]. Group 3: Emergence of Personalized Memorialization - A variety of creative memorialization options have emerged, including memorial items made from ashes, such as glass art and life gems, which allow families to keep a tangible connection to their loved ones [18][19]. - The trend of creating personalized memorial items reflects a desire for unique and meaningful ways to remember the deceased, with services offering custom pieces that incorporate ashes [19]. - The rise of DIY funerals has also been observed, with families taking a more active role in the funeral process, reflecting a return to pre-industrial practices [21]. Group 4: Influencing Factors Behind Changes - Major historical events, such as the 9/11 attacks, have profoundly impacted American perceptions of death, leading to a shift in how bodies are viewed and treated [23][24]. - The increasing awareness of climate change and natural disasters has fostered a greater acceptance of green burial practices, as people recognize the environmental impact of traditional burial methods [24]. - The decline of traditional religious influences has allowed for a more individualized approach to funerals, with people increasingly choosing methods that resonate with their personal beliefs and values [25][26]. Group 5: Broader Implications - The evolving funeral customs in America reflect a broader cultural shift towards individualism and personal expression, as people seek to define their own meanings of life and death [28]. - The article suggests that these changes in funeral practices are not just about the rituals themselves but also about how individuals relate to their mortality and the legacies they wish to leave behind [28][29].