Judaism has had a long and varied influence on American culture since the first Jewish immigrants ever stepped on US soil. American Jewish populations have grown from 7,300 in 1776 to 7.5 million in 2002, making Judaism the fourth largest religion in the US. This is an impressive achievement for a religious group once seen with disdain from other forms of American culture. As the Jewish population exploded so did its influence, eventually carving its own unique place into American cultural history.
What is Judaism?
Judaism is an ancient monotheistic Abrahamic religion. It is based on the principles set out in the Torah and its laws and teachings, as well as the Synagogue and Jewish holidays. Jews believe in one God and strive to live by the ethical code of the Torah. Some of its more famous beliefs and principles include the notion of being “chosen” as God’s people, the importance of family and community, the norm of charity and performing good deeds, as well as observing Kosher dietary laws and Shabbat.
Judaism’s Influence on American Culture
Judaism has had an immense impact on American culture in unexpected but hugely beneficial ways. Here’s a look at some of the most significant ways that Judaism has influenced American culture:
Strong Focus on Education
One of the most notable aspects of Jewish culture is the reverence of the written word and education, something which has had a massive impact on American culture. The Jewish focus on education has meant a strong presence in higher education, as well as more generally in the pursuit of knowledge. This impact has also been seen in the growing number of precocious and successful Jews who have emerged in the world of academia, business, literature, media, and politics.
Political Activism
The civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s was heavily influenced by American Jews, who brought about a culture of political activism, which increased freedom and improved civil liberties. From this, opportunities for other minority groups in America were created, from educational to economic advancements. This has been credited by some as the creation of multiculturalism in the US.
Political organizations, such as the National Conference of Synagogue Youth, created by Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, have since gone on to influence and shape American politics long after his death in 1972.
Respect for the Arts
Judaism has instilled a deep respect and appreciation for the arts in its adherents. This is evident in the wide number of exceptional Jewish actors, writers, filmmakers and musicians who have come to prominence in the United States. Jews have also had a significant impact on the art world, in terms of style and subject matter, as seen in the works of renowned abstract painters like Mark Rothko and Morris Louis.
The Gift of Language
Not only have Jews had an impact on the popular culture of language and phrases but they have also brought Yiddish to the world and made it a part of conversation. This new language, with its rich collection of words, idioms, and phrases, has been embraced by other Americans who have integrated it into American English. Many American Jews themselves still use Yiddish in their day-to-day conversations.
Use of Humor
American Jews are well known for their wit, sharp insights, and self-deprecating humor. This humor has been repeatedly credited with influencing American comedy, from stand up to television shows. The late, great Mel Brooks, for example, is considered an icon of satiric humor and was renowned for his Jewish-infused cultural observations.
Theater
Jewish writers have had a significant impact on the American theater. From George Gershwin, considered by many to be the greatest American composer ever, to Arthur Miller, some of the most iconic and iconic works in the theater are of Jewish origin.
These works have opened up other Americans to the world of Jewish culture and thought, leading to a greater appreciation and understanding of Judaism.
The Food Scene
Jewish culture has influenced American cuisine as well. This is seen in the increase in the popularity of Jewish foods like bagels, Montreal-style smoked meat and falafel that are now staples in supermarkets and restaurants.
This list is, of course, not exhaustive. Jewish influence can be seen in American culture from its financial impact to the Jewish-American involvement in, and contribution to, many facets of American life. It’s clear that, today, Judaism is an omnipresent force for good in American culture.
