What sparked the movement for cremation in England and the United States?

The movement for cremation in England and the United States was significantly influenced by the issue of limited burial spaces. As urbanization increased during the 19th century, cities became densely populated, leading to a pressing need for more efficient use of land. Traditional burial practices required substantial space for cemeteries, which began to run out in highly populated areas. This lack of available burial plots caused communities to seek alternative methods of body disposition.

Cremation provided a practical solution to the problem, as it required far less physical space compared to traditional burials. Additionally, the process of cremation allowed for the ashes to be stored or scattered in a variety of meaningful ways, offering families more options and flexibility. The rise of cremation as a response to limited burial space highlights how societal needs can drive changes in cultural practices related to death and disposition.