Jews in American Politics: Essays

(Paperback)

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Description

Joseph Lieberman's Vice Presidential nomination and Presidential candidacy are neither the first nor last words on signal Jewish achievements in American politics. Jews have played an important role in American government since the early 1800s at least, and in view of the 2004 election, there is no political office outside the reach of Jewish American citizens.

For the first time, Jews in American Politics: Essays brings together a complete picture of the past, present, and future of Jewish political participation. Perfect for students and scholars alike, this monumental work includes thoughtful and original chapters by leading journalists, scholars, and practitioners. Topics range from Jewish leadership and identity; to Jews in Congress, on the Supreme Court, and in presidential administrations; and on to Jewish influence in the media, the lobbies, and in other arenas in which American government operates powerfully, if informally. In addition to the thematically unified essays, Jews in American Politics: Essays concludes with an invaluable roster of Jews in key governmental positions from Ambassadorships and Cabinet posts to federal judges, state governors, and mayors of major cities.

Both analytical and anecdotal, the essays in Jews in American Politics offer deep insight into serious questions about the dilemmas that Jews in public
service face, as well as humorous sidelights and authoritative reference materials never before collected in one source. The story of the rich tradition of Jewish participation in American political life provides an indispensable resource for any serious follower of American politics, especially in election year 2004.

Reviews

Jews have long played an important role in American Politicsbehind the scenes and, increasingly, in the spotlight. Jews in American Politics tells the story from colonial days to the nomination of Joseph Lieberman for vice president in 2000, and fills a place that has been vacant for too long on our political bookshelves. -- Michael Barone, U.S. News and World Report
The experience I had during the 2000 presidential campaign has only deepened my feelings about public service. It reinforced my basic faith in the goodness and tolerance of the American people, my belief that there is an important role for idealism in public life, and my conviction that each individual can make a contribution to a better society. It has also convinced me as never before that American Jews have an important and special role to play in the civic life of this great country. . . . That is the spirit I hope readersparticularly young readerswill draw from this important book. -- Joseph I. Lieberman, Senator
This is a fascinating and comprehensive study of the role Jews have played in American politics and government. Along with documenting their many unique contributions, it is a tribute to thier own determination and to the democracy that gave them the opportunity to overcome the barriers of anti-Semitisim. -- Hal Bruno, former political director, ABC news
Reading Jews in American Politics is like finding a missing puzzle piece. Never before has there been such a detailed account of Jewish political experience. Using thought provoking essays and compelling statistics, this work tells us where we have been, where we are, and where we are going. It is a must-read for anyone interested in politics and any person with a love of history and heritage. -- Senator Barbara Boxer, (D-Calif.)
An excellent source of both fact and analysis. * Publishers Weekly *
This volume examines Jews' participation in politics disproportionate to their numbers. It also shows the important role religion has played in shaping Jewish attitudes toward justice and communal responsibility. * The Washington Post *
A wonderful new book. * National Journal *
Maisel presents a comprehensive and readable compendium on the history and present role of Jews in American politics. Here, in one place, is an encyclopedic rendering of Jewish political life in the U.S. in a readable and professional manner. This book belongs in all libraries, academic and public, where the question of Jewish participation in politics is a concern. Highly recommended. * Choice Reviews *

Author Bio

L. Sandy Maisel is the William R. Kenan, Jr. Professor and chair of the Department of Government at Colby College. He is also director of the Center for Public Affairs and Civic Engagement at Colby College.
Ira N. Forman is executive director of the National Jewish Democratic Council and the research director of the Solomon Project.