Transgressions of Church and State: Tracing Historical Origins and Motives for Conflict and Discord

Few issues before the courts have proven over time to be as compelling, divisive, or enduring as the principles of separation and how they have been outlined within the United States Constitution. Arguments have been steadily addressed and dispatched according to the various modes of constitutional interpretation from which legal scholars operate. While consideration of originalism or textualism and other popular methods of interpretation make their way into any legal discussion, the catalyst for addressing this chapter differed. Instead, this chapter examines the topic through a historical perspective that focuses on power and purpose as it traces the inherent motives behind visible shifts in Constitutional interpretations and leanings. Specifically, this chapter first engages in an examination of the ideals and arguments that were registered as the country was coming into being. It next moves from history and philosophy to foundational case arguments and rulings that followed. This evolves into the balancing act between science and the beliefs that underscored an evident emergence of political leanings making their continued presence felt. Finally, the chapter examines implications for educational leadership, including expected conflict, just ahead of providing an accounting of anticipated future imports for this topic regarding the next generation or two.