Date of Award
December 2012
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
History
First Advisor
Rachel I. Buff
Committee Members
Winson W. Chu, Glen S. Jeansonne
Keywords
First World War, German-American, Lutheran, Missouri Synod, Wisconsin Synod, World War I
Abstract
The First World War came to the United States to the consternation of many of its citizens, especially its German Americans. On the home front, government officials required complete adherence to the war effort. This also included religious adherence. The Wisconsin Synod Lutherans, a German-speaking religious group, met tremendous difficulties during the war years. In addition to the crusade against all things German, the synod faced religious persecution because it doctrinally abstained from religiously sanctioning the war aims and programs of the United States. The repression of the synod came from both patriotic citizens and government agents who typically misunderstood or disdained the religious practices of the synod. The situation created predicaments for German Lutherans as they attempted to serve both God and country.
Recommended Citation
Gurgel, Stephen Scott, "The War to End All Germans: Wisconsin Synod Lutherans and the First World War" (2012). Theses and Dissertations. 52.
https://dc.uwm.edu/etd/52