We the People The History of Jews in the American South
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May 29, 2025 Richard Kreitner, an author and historian focusing on Jewish history and American slavery, and Shari Rabin, a scholar specializing in the Jewish South, offer fascinating insights into the Southern Jewish experience. They discuss Jewish immigration's roots, the struggle for equality, and the roles of notable figures like Judah Benjamin. The conversation highlights Ernestine Rose's advocacy for women's rights and abolition, the rise of anti-Semitism during the Civil War, and the political dynamics in the post-war Jewish community.
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Early Religious Toleration in Carolina
- The Fundamental Constitutions of Carolina in 1669 offered unprecedented religious freedom for Jews in the colonies.
- This early legal tolerance stimulated Jewish migration and community formation in the South by the 18th century.
Jews' Legal Racial Status in America
- Jews were legally considered white and thus gained social privileges in America unlike Europe.
- This racial status helped Jews rise economically and socially, unlike their past European restrictions.
Civil War Era Anti-Semitism Origins
- Anti-Semitism in the Civil War era arose from economic competition and wartime frustrations.
- Jews faced baseless accusations of disloyalty and profiteering, impacting their social and political status.
