Book excerpt: Albert Churchward's famous study of Ancient Egyptian myths and symbology reveals how their mythological culture evolved over thousands of years, influencing other civilizations. The author was among the first Western scholars to investigate the connection between the religious symbols, deities and traditions of Egypt, and those which emerged in later societies. By studying the hieroglyphic texts preserved in the monuments and papyrus of the Egyptian society, Churchward uncovered the origins of legendary stories, the roles of Gods like Horus and Ptah, and the emergence of important symbols such as the triangle, cross and swastika. The religious and cultural influence of this ancient society, whose dynasties stretched across millennia, is revealed to be of staggering magnitude. This book pieces together the connections between Egyptian lore and that of the Hebrews, the Freemasons, the Mayans and various tribal societies. The depth of Churchward's enquiry is enormous; hundreds of drawings, symbols, and photographs accompany the narrative, that the reader may discover the myriad connections and wide-ranging influence of the Egyptians from antiquity onward. Frequent quotations and cites of accomplished workers in the field of Egyptology, such as Dr. Wallis Budge and Gerald Massey, further support the points established.