Black and Jewish America: An Interwoven History

From intersecting histories of persecution to diverging fates on American shores, episode one of Black and Jewish America: An Interwoven History traces the early forces that shaped the Black and Jewish connection in the U.S. Journeys of exile, faith, resilience, terror, migration, early civil rights partnerships, and tests of solidarity define the relationship by the early 20th century.

This episode explores the alliances between Black and Jewish communities in the first half of the 20th century, and their divides. From the Harlem Renaissance and Great American Songbook to fighting Nazis, it examines influential collaborations, frictions, and the lasting cultural and social impact of their intertwined histories.

This episode recalls the 1950s and 1960s “Grand Alliance” between Black and Jewish communities. From Brown v. Board to Freedom Summer, Jews were key allies in the Black-led civil rights movement. But by the end of the 1960s, fractures grew as overseas conflict and the domestic realities of race and class pushed the communities apart.

Explore the evolving Black and Jewish alliance from the 1970s onward. From affirmative action and political milestones to Middle East tensions and rising hate, it examines challenges, shared struggles, and the lessons of solidarity in a divided America.