The Missionaries of Africa, commonly known as the White Fathers or the Society of the Missionaries of Africa (French: Pères Blancs; post-nominals: M. Afr.) are a Roman Catholic society of apostolic life. Founded in 1868 by Archbishop of Algiers Cardinal Charles Lavigerie, the society focuses on evangelism and education, mostly in Africa. The habit of the missionaries resembles the white robes of the Algerian Arabs and consists of a cassock or gandoura, and a mantle or burnous. A rosary and cross are worn around the neck in imitation of the mesbaha of the marabouts. This history of the White Fathers' missions in Africa reveals the spiritual magnitude of these courageous men who suffered and died to bring an end to slavery, ignorance and fear. Against a background that is alive with intrigue and adventure as well as heroism and inspiration, the author dramatizes his characters, men as great as Africa itself.