Jewish Museums in the United States: Foundations and Changes in the Twentieth Century

Abstract:Jewish museums were conceived in the United States at the turn of the twentieth century. The immigration of Jews from Europe in the 1930s as a result of the rise to power of the Nazi regime in Germany brought a wealth of knowledge and cultural objects to the United States. This also resulted in several key institutions’ salvaging of such artifacts. These collecting efforts led to the founding and extensive growth of important Jewish museums across the United States from the 1950s onward. The role of Jewish museums was perceived as an educator for future generations. From centers trying to find their place in society, Jewish museums became key to understanding local communities in the United States. Since the 1980s they have continued to develop through the preservation of old synagogues and by offering unique experiences to children.