Jews in American Politics: Essays (Solomon Project Book) - Softcover

Jews have long played an important role in American Politics-behind 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 readers-particularly young readers-will 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 *

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.