ABSTRACT
It is perhaps correct to say that in the whole range of symbolism no emblem is more widespread or has exerted greater influence upon the institutions of mankind than the branch or tree. Primitive man was impressed by the huge proportions of trees, their age, and the usefulness of their fruits. Furthermore, the tree was to early man his village meeting-place, and his protection from the fierce heat of the sun or the cold or the rain. We can thus understand how after a time he came to regard it as an object of veneration and worship.
