Lesson Summary:
Part of a series focusing on Jewish American History, this lesson deals with American Jewry from the 17th Century through today.
Ideally, Jewish American history should be integrated throughout the America history curriculum rather
than simply being presented as a discrete topic. The ICS resource Jews in American History: A Teacher’s Guide provides information about topics that are enriched by including Jewish American history along
with significant facts that can be incorporated into existing lessons.
Aims
1) Students will be able to provide an overview of Jewish history in America and will recognize that Jews have been part of American society throughout its history.
2) Students will be able to discuss tolerance, acceptance, and opportunity in America as it relates to Jews. In particular, they will recognize that throughout its history, America has offered Jews relatively more tolerance, acceptance, and opportunity than other countries, but that the struggle for greater equality is part of the history of Jews in America.