The German Jews in America

A Minority within a Minority

By (author) Gerhard Falk

Publication date:

01 April 2014

Length of book:

170 pages

Publisher

University Press of America

Dimensions:

236x161mm
6x9"

ISBN-13: 9780761863052

This book describes the assimilation and acculturation of a small minority who immigrated to the United States in the nineteenth century and again in the twentieth century. Gerhard Falk focuses on refugees who fled from Nazi tyranny in the 1930s, immigrated to America, and succeeded despite immense obstacles. This book includes a review of the most prominent academics that made major contributions to science, medicine, art, and literature in America. The German Jews in America demonstrates that America is still the land of opportunity for everyone who makes an effort, no matter what their religion, ethnicity, or race. In addition, this book is a key to understanding immigration and the role of community in providing the support needed in becoming an American.

Acknowledgments
Preface
Chapter 1 — Prologue
Chapter 2 — The Germans Re-Invent Judaism
Chapter 3 — The Persecution of the German Jews, 1933–1941
Chapter 4 — The Refugees Come to America
Chapter 5 — Scientists, Professors and Academics
Chapter 6 — From Immigrant to Marginal Man
Chapter 7 — Assimilation, Acculturation and the Immigrant
Bibliography
Index

Sociologist Falk addresses the experience of German Jews, most of whom entered the US in two waves: in the middle 1800s and then as refugees from Nazi Germany. German Jews are commonly comprehended as an elite group due to their education, occupational skills, Western cultural orientation, and accomplishments in business, finance, the professions, and other activities. Falk challenges this view. Providing a detailed summary of the group’s reasons for migration and patterns of adaptation to the US, he contends that their small numbers and flight from the Nazis meant that they were marginalized within the eastern European–dominated US Jewish community. Moreover, while the group was known for their achievements, the average German Jewish immigrant was more likely to be a small business owner than an accomplished statesman or financier. Despite their disadvantages, German Jews and their children made remarkable strides in adapting and contributing to US society. The book is packed with fascinating details about the population. Especially for readers interested in history, religion, and ethnic groups. Summing Up: Highly recommended. All readership levels.