What are the origins of Israeli nationalism? What is the cultural logic behind national festivals, military parades and patriotic memorials? How does a country like Israel transform state-related public events into enactments of nationalism? In this book, Don Handelman considers the meaning of Holocaust and military memorialism in Israel. He investigates the role of holiday celebrations, especially how they affect young children first learning about their country. Analyzing state ceremonies such as Holocaust Remembrance Day for the war dead, and Independence Day, he notes the absence of minorities and examines their significance in the promotion of a national identity. He also looks at how Israel exports powerful symbols of statehood. Throughout, he unravels the meaning of national ritual and symbol in Israel today.