Description
Book Synopsis: Rabbi Morris Newfield led Temple Emanu-El in Birmingham from 1895–1940 and was counted among the most influential religious and social leaders of that city. In Birmingham’s Rabbi, Mark Cowett chronicles Newfield’s astonishing career and uses it as a vehicle to trace the nature of ethnic leadership in America.
Taking a multidimensional approach, Cowett places Newfield’s early life in the context of his Hungarian childhood and also relates Newfield’s career to those of fellow Hebrew Union College graduates and to national Reform Jewish history. The reader is made aware constantly of changing conditions in Birmingham, in Alabama, and in the south and how those changes affected Newfield’s congregants.
Cowett illuminates Newfield’s efforts to help Jews maintain a sense of religious identity in a predominately Southern and Christian environment. Based upon essential sources including interviews, newspapers, and manuscript collections in Alabama and at the American Jewish Archives in Cincinnati, Cowett shows Newfield’s struggle to support social welfare efforts in Alabama during the Progressive Era. He recognized the need for Jews to develop bonds with other American ethnic groups.
Cowett portrays him as a mediator between not only Jew and Christian but also black and white, labor and capital, liberal and conservative—in short, within the full spectrum of political and social exchange in an industrial city of the New South.
Details
In Birmingham's Rabbi: Morris Newfield and Alabama, 1895-1940 (Judaic Studies Series), explore the fascinating journey of Rabbi Morris Newfield, an influential religious and social leader in Birmingham. Discover how his Hungarian childhood shaped his early life and witness his significant impact as the leader of Temple Emanu-El. This book, expertly researched and written by Mark Cowett, delves into the complexities of ethnic leadership in America, making it a must-read for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the study of Judaism.
Through a multidimensional approach, Cowett brings to life the dynamic atmosphere of Birmingham, Alabama, and the South during Newfield's tenure. Readers will gain valuable insights into the challenges faced by Newfield's congregants and his tireless efforts to help them maintain their religious identity in a predominantly Christian environment. Drawing from interviews, newspapers, and manuscript collections, Cowett expertly weaves together a narrative that highlights the changing social and political landscape of the time.
One of the key strengths of Birmingham's Rabbi is Cowett's portrayal of Newfield as a bridge-builder between various communities. Witness Newfield's role as a mediator, not only between Jews and Christians but also between different racial, political, and socioeconomic groups. This book not only sheds light on Newfield's remarkable achievements but also presents a compelling exploration of the rich tapestry of social and cultural exchange in the New South.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to dive into the captivating story of Birmingham's Rabbi. Discover the triumphs and challenges faced by Rabbi Morris Newfield and gain a deeper understanding of the historical dynamics that shaped the South. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a student of ethnic studies, or simply curious about the Jewish experience in America, this book is a must-read. Get your copy of Birmingham's Rabbi today and embark on an enlightening journey through the life of Rabbi Morris Newfield!
Discover More Best Sellers in Regional U.S.
Shop Regional U.S.
$67.41
Regional U.S. - Early Women Architects of the San Francisco Bay Area: The Lives and Work of Fifty Professionals, 1890-1951
$12.95
Regional U.S. - My Brother Jason: The Untold Story of Jason Corbett’s Life and Brutal Murder by Tom and Molly Martens
California Dish: What I Saw (and Cooked) at the American Culinary Revolution
$1.30
Regional U.S. - California Dish: What I Saw (and Cooked) at the American Culinary Revolution
The Detective in the Dooryard: Reflections of a Maine Cop
$19.99
Regional U.S. - The Detective in the Dooryard: Reflections of a Maine Cop
Texas Rich: The Hunt Dynasty, from the Early Oil Days Through the Silver Crash
$28.95
Regional U.S. - Texas Rich: The Hunt Dynasty, from the Early Oil Days Through the Silver Crash
The Greatest Burden The Greatest Blessing: Caregiving stories of hope, humility, and love
$19.95
Regional U.S. - The Greatest Burden The Greatest Blessing: Caregiving stories of hope, humility, and love
A Good Day's Work: An Iowa Farm in the Great Depression
$26.00
Regional U.S. - A Good Day's Work: An Iowa Farm in the Great Depression
