Why Does the USA Have a Large Jewish Population?

The USA is home to a significant Jewish population, with an estimated 7.6 million Jews living in the country as of 2020. This number alone makes the United States the country with the second-largest Jewish population in the world, after Israel. But what explains this large Jewish population? This article will explore the historical context of Jewish immigration to the USA, the unique history of Jewish-Americans, and the factors that have contributed to the thriving Jewish community in the United States today.

The Historical Context of Jewish Immigration

During the 19th century, the USA saw a significant wave of immigration from Europe. This influx included millions of Jews who were fleeing from a variety of persecutions and hardships in their home countries. Among the millions of immigrants, over 3 million Jews came from the Russian Empire, seeking refuge from the Czarist pogroms. Prior to this, there were small Jewish communities in the USA, including a tiny Sephardic community since the 1600s and a small German community since the 1700s. It was this massive wave of Russian Jewish immigrants in the 19th century that largely explains the current large Jewish population in the USA.

The Unique History of Jewish-Americans

It is true that American Jews have managed to thrive in the country. However, their success is not due to a failure of persecution, but rather in spite of it. Unlike many other countries that have historically persecuted their Jewish populations, the USA has never expelled or murdered its Jewish citizens. Instead, it has provided a secure haven, particularly when compared to Europe.

Among the notable aspects of the USA's history with its Jewish population is the fact that the Founders of the USA did not import the 2,500-year-old tradition of church and government-sanctioned antisemitism. Thus, the USA has had a relatively secure and supportive environment for Jews compared to much of Europe, especially during the periods of antisemitic violence and persecution. The USA's record regarding its Jewish population, while not perfect, has been the most secure for Jews until the creation of the state of Israel.

Why the USA Is Not a Jewish Country

While the Jewish community in the USA has flourished, it is important to note that the USA is, at its core, an American country. The belief that the USA is a Jewish country is a misconception. Approximately 7.6 million people in the USA are Jewish, which represents around 2.4% of the total population. This is far from a majority and will never be. Israel remains the only country on Earth with a Jewish majority.

The thriving Jewish community in the USA is a testament to the country's open and inclusive policies towards immigrants. American Jews have not faced the same persecutions and restrictions as their counterparts in many European countries, and as such, they have been free to participate and thrive in American society. It is important to recognize and celebrate this diverse and thriving community, while also acknowledging that it does not make the USA a Jewish country.

In conclusion, the large Jewish population in the USA is the result of significant historical events and immigration patterns, coupled with a secure and supportive environment. While the USA has provided a secure haven for Jews, it remains a country with a rich cultural tapestry, rather than a Jewish one.