A broad discussion about how history and religion contribute to identity politics in contemporary Europe, this book provides case studies exemplifying how public intellectuals and academics have taken an active part in the construction of recent and traditional pasts. Instead of repeating the simplistic explanation as a “return of religion,” this volume focuses on public platforms and agents and their use of religion as a political and cultural argument. Filled with previously unpublished data—gathered from texts, interviews, field observations, artifacts, and material culture—this record challenges stereotypical images of East and Southeast Europe.