The Lithuanian Cross-crafting Tradition during the Period of National Revival (1988–1991): Reclaiming Memory

Abstract

The article examines the Lithuanian cross-crafting tradition during the period of National Revival (1988–1991). The primary objective is to reveal how cross-crafting served as an expression of the prevailing societal sentiments, values, and topical issues of the time. The main focus is on an analysis of the intentions and occasions for erecting crosses during the period of National Revival. The article determines the dominant intentions for building crosses: commemoration of the victims of Soviet repression,
specifically fallen partisans and deportees; the rebuilding of crosses that had been destroyed by the Soviet regime; to thank God for regained freedom and to seek divine protection for the nation and the state, which had had independence restored. The study concludes that the cross-crafting tradition during the National Revival reflected the most significant issues of that period, i.e. reclaiming historical memory and the aspiration for freedom and independence.