Edited into modern English from the 1926 John C. Winston Company edition of Fox's Book of Martyrs. The beginning of this book was first published in 1563 by John Fox, who wanted to list specifics concerning the persecutions of Christians, starting with the Romans, and covering the Catholic Church's Inquisition. After his death, more names and situations were added, up until the 1800's. This book receives a bit of condemnation by some who believe that nothing but what John Fox himself wrote should be included. Another reason it is slammed is because a few Catholic Priests are added in the list, when John Fox originally wanted to rebuke the Catholic church for being the instigators of horrible crimes against anyone who didn't follow their teachings. However, there is ample, vigorous condemnation for the Catholic religion contained within, and the book is very informative for historical perspective.