This article examines the cultural and religious aspects of the social life of Chicago Czechs in the second half of the 19th century. Firstly, there is a brief outline of the history of Czech Chicago.
There is a description of the role of schools, cultural societies and religion in fostering the patriotism and national identity of Chicago Czechs. Finally, there is a look at the religious relationship between the Czech Catholics and freethinkers, and their influence on everyday life in Czech Chicago.