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Ethnohistorical Aspects of Peyotism and Mescalism.


Pages: 277 - 296

Abstract

The relationship of "mescal bean cult" and "Peyote Religion" is clouded by the theory that harsh or violent cults are older than mild ones. This is questionable notwithstanding more ancient Sophora secundiflora than Lophophora williamsii are found in archaeological sites. Lophophora and Sophora have been closely associated during the full history of Peyotism in the United States. Their use in Peyotism does not make the Native American Church much different from other churches in producing "good behavior." Many Peyotists are at the same time active Catholics, Episcopalians, Mormons, Baptist ministers, leaders of Sun Dance, or medicine men (shamans).