The Foundations of American Jewish Liberalism

‘The Foundations of American Jewish Liberalism is a significant contribution to scholarship in political science, Jewish studies, and American studies. Wald's argument is fresh, the evidence compelling, and the use of mixed methods exemplary. A significant contribution to the field, given its novel explanation, theoretical grounding and methodological pluralism.' Laurence Kotler-Berkowitz, Senior Director of Research and Analysis and Director of the Berman Jewish DataBank, The Jewish Federations of North America

‘To solve the riddle of American Jewish electoral choices, Kenneth D. Wald ably injects data drawn from social science to buttress his savvy historical judgments in explaining the enduring attraction of liberalism. Few if any scholars exhibit his masterly command of this material or can interpret its meaning with such crispness. Wald's invaluable book is bound to re-ignite a debate over why Jews have constituted so anomalous a minority in the body politic.' Stephen J. Whitfield, Brandeis University, Massachusetts

‘Kenneth D. Wald, in a book that handily blends history and political science, deftly tackles an issue that has grabbed the attention of scholars, journalists, political commentators and Jewish communal leaders since the 1950s: why Jewish liberalism in the United States, where did it spring from, and will it last? Wald offers a gripping narrative with a scope that extends back to the era of the Civil War and moves with elegance into our own times. While the national and global circumstances of the Jews have changed radically, their political liberalism barely moves off course. What has intrigued so many before Kenneth D. Wald becomes clearer here in this deeply researched and well written excursion into an issue that, like Jewish liberalism itself, seems to never die.' Hasia R. Diner, New York University, author of The Jews of the United States, 1654–2000

'Wald presents a model of interdisciplinary research. His monograph will urge historians to speak to the present moment and for social scientists to scaffold their theories with historical analysis.' Zev Eleff, Journal of Church and State

‘… insightful, thoughtful, and delightful to read.’ Gil Troy, AJS Review