The U. S. Civil War And Antisemitism

By Annabelle Holman


The earliest days of racism were during the American Revolution and Civil War. During the American Revolution, it was the Native Americans who were first to experience discrimination when the first case of antisemitism in the U. S. Occurred. Whereas, antisemitism in the U. S. Was first seen during the Civil War.

While antisemitism is alive an well in the U. S., it is still not as horrid as during the time of the holocaust. During World War II, many Jews were gassed, tortured and placed in grueling work camps, most often while waiting execution. Hitler, responsible for these atrocities and others had hoped for the complete elimination of all non-whites. Giving birth to the ideology of antisemitism and racism in Germany in the 1940s.

Following World War II, many American Jewish students worked to reduce antisemitism in America. It has only been confirmed recently that the America has never seen a time in which bigotry, hatred and racism has not existed. While this may have been the case in the past, most hope to see more equality as related to race, religion or lifestyle.

Most Americans reject antisemitism and racism. Others, find every means possible to create havoc in the lives of innocent individuals and families who appear different than themselves. While this may be the case, it will take a lot of advocates and education before becoming a reality.

Jews have flourished in America since the early days. Following the 19th century, many Jewish communities formed in different areas of the country. Having endured far too many years of hatred and non-acceptance, these communities began forming during the World War II when many escaped the holocaust and arrived in America.

Fortunately, Antisemitic incidents have decreased during the last century. Most likely thanks to the Civil Rights Act, racism in general also saw a decrease in overall racism. Defining the difference between Antisemitism and racism can often be difficult. The clearest definition is that Antisemitism is hatred based on race and religion. Whereas, racial discrimination is strictly based on race alone.

Much anti-Judaism is based on extreme right wing religious philosophies and hatred for any one who is of a different race, religion or mindset. Racists and white supremest still appear on talk shows expressing anti-semitic, homophobic, racist views trying to explain this view of rampant bigotry and hatred. While there may be a few in the audience which agree with those presenting these views, most often there are far more supporters for equality over bigotry, hatred and racism.

Most Americans reject Antisemitism and racism. In fact, many take advantage of and enjoy local Jewish culture. A number of Americans also consider the Kaballah a Spiritual path. Whereas, many have also converted to Orthodox Judaism for marriage or other reasons. While reformation is possible, individuals seeking to convert to Judaism from other religions must often meet with the Rabbi on several occasions as part of the process.




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