Skip to content

Bronx Quote by Arthur Hertzberg

“Most American Jews came from the lower middle classes, and therefore they brought with them not a lot of Jewish culture. The American Jewish story starts with Ellis Island, and the candy store in the Bronx.” quote by Arthur Hertzberg
Download Open image
“Most American Jews came from the lower middle classes, and therefore they brought with them not a lot of Jewish culture. The American Jewish story starts with Ellis Island, and the candy store in the Bronx.”

Arthur Hertzberg

About This Quote

Source Essay: The American Jewish Experience, 1975

American Jews often arrived with limited cultural heritage, shaping a distinct community identity rooted in immigration and urban life.

In simple terms: Immigration shaped a new Jewish identity.

Key Takeaway

Recognize cultural adaptation.

Themes

immigration identity culture

Mood

thoughtful historical

Type

analytical educational

When to use this quote

  • community building
  • education
  • policy making
  • media representation

Key Concepts

assimilation urban sociology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How did immigrant experiences shape your identity?
  • What cultural elements persisted?
A Different Perspective

Overlooks diversity within the group.

2.4 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Arthur Hertzberg

Explore all 20 Arthur Hertzberg quotes

More Bronx quotes

Browse all 182 Bronx quotes