The United States contains within it the largest concentration of Jews outside of Israel. America's geographical and historical detachment from historically older Jewish geographical centers, along with its founding principles of freedom of religion and separation between church and state, have facilitated the emergence of fresh perceptions of Judaism and Jewish identity, and original thinkers, movements and institutions. These have impacted profoundly the evolution of Jewish life both locally and throughout the globe. However, in the past few years, voices have emerged claiming that the so-called "Golden Age" of American Jewry is over. For some who initially doubted this view, the heinous October 7th Hamas attacks on Israel and the subsequent controversies that have raged were key turning points that convinced them that a transformative change had taken place. Still others were more optimistic, and while recognizing significant changes in the American Jewish landscape, were confident that its future is secure and bright. In this four-part series we will engage critical moments in the history of American Jewry, explore foundational aspects of its unique character and creativity, and then utilize these building blocks to examine more current events and where they may lead.
Prof. Adam S. Ferziger
Israel & Golda Koschitzky Dept. of Jewish History & Contemporary Jewry
Bar-Ilan University
