| Abstract: | Symbols are a vital part of our everyday lives. We see them in our homes, in our workplaces, and in our communities. Symbols offer certain measures of beauty and comfort, predictability and reassurance. In times and settings of conflict, however, symbols do much more than that. Symbols can provide meaning for heartfelt convictions and direction for future actions. This article examines symbols used in a time and setting of very real conflict between church and state, particularly as such a conflict centered upon parochial education. The time is immediately before, during, and immediately after World War I. The state under study is Nebraska, as its citizens and officials competed with Lutheran denominations for the loyalty of resident parents and children. |
