"The Gathering of Infidels, the first history of the RPA, delves into its archives to tell a fascinating story. Experienced freethought historian Bill Cooke discusses the association's achievements and ideas and profiles the key people involved in its development. At the same time, he does not shy away from its difficulties and controversies, offering a critical perspective that rationalists will certainly appreciate. He covers the historical background of the RPA's formation, the crucial role played by Charles Albert Watts, the association's enormous publishing successes, the vicissitudes of war and peace, and the evolution of rationalist ideas. The appendices include RPA-related bibliographic information as well as listings of its honorary associates, office holders, and conference topics and speakers."--BOOK JACKET.