Time Schedule:
Noam Pianko
HSTAA 336
Seattle Campus
Political, social, economic, religious history of American Jewish community from great eastern European migration to present. Integration of immigrant community into general American community; rise of nativism; development of American socialism; World War I and II; and reactions of American Jews to these events. Offered: jointly with SISJE 336.
Class description
This course explores the creation and evolution of the American Jewish community during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. We will investigate the ways in which Jews and Judaism adapted in response to the political, social, religious, and intellectual currents of American history. We will pay particular attention to the strategies developed by Jewish intellectuals and leaders to construct a seamless synthesis between definitions of Americanism and Judaism. In order create such a synthesis, Jews simultaneously transformed Judaism and also attempted to redefine definitions of American citizenship. Through the careful examination of primary sources—texts, photographs, films and music—this course will analyze the historical developments of the Jewish community in the United States and challenge your assumptions about the development of religious, ethnic and national identities in America.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
This course combines lecture and discussion. Class participation is expected.
Recommended preparation
Background courses in Jewish studies or American history are helpful, but not required.
Class assignments and grading
Two take-home essay assignments and regular short response papers
Written work and class participation
