This was the first denomination of the craft to make itself known publicly (in the 1950's, in England).
Because of that, many people mistakenly think that it is the only "true" Wicca.
It is named for its founder, Gerald Gardner, who actually launched the tradition a few years after the end of World War 2.
For many years Gardner was accused of inventing the whole concept of Wicca and of getting Aleister Crowley to write its rituals. Today he has been pretty well cleared of both these charges.
The Gardnerian Book of Shadows can now be seen as a compilation from various sources, much of it actually contributed by Doreen Valiente.
For a detailed examination of the birth of Gardnerian, see Janet and Stewart Farrar's books Eight Sabbats for Witches and The Witches' Way
The Gardnerian tradition places emphasis on the Goddess over the God, with the female generally lauded over the male. It has a degree system of advancement and does not allow for self-initiation.
Covens work skyclad and aim to have "perfect couples" - equal numbers of male and female, paired. Covens are, theoretically at least, autonomous.
Gardnerian Wicca is found in most countries around the world.
For more information contact:
Joyce Rasmussen
383 Harrison Street
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
Beaufort House 
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