Immigration and American Religion (Religion in American Life)

Joselit, Jenna Weissman

ISBN 10: 0195110838 ISBN 13: 9780195110838

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 2001

Spanning the years 1500 to the end of the 20th century, Immigration and American Religion is a unique exploration of the evolution, character, and dynamics of religion in America. From the original influx of Protestants to subsequent waves of Catholics, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and devotees of Santeria and Voudou, Jenna Weissman Joselit describes the struggle to establish traditions in the New World, oftentimes in the face of considerable hostility and prejudice. The impact of intolerance, the U.S. government's various policies on immigration, and the effects of two World Wars all play a significant part in this fascinating narrative. Drawing on the voices and experiences of immigrants, Immigration and American Religion documents the extraordinary diversity that has, for four centuries, made the United States one of the world's most dynamic societies.

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About the Author:

Jenna Weissman Joselit is at Princeton University.

From School Library Journal:

Gr 6 Up-A chapter each is devoted to Protestantism, Catholicism, Judaism, and the Asian religions. The interesting, well-written text, rich in quotations from immigrants and their religious leaders, tells as much about these new Americans as it does about their religions. The Protestant experience moves from Pilgrims and Puritans into the groups succeeding them in the 18th and 19th centuries-Quakers, Mennonites, Amish, Moravians, and Lutherans. "Catholicism" focuses on the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when the demands of different ethnic groups-Irish, German, Italian, Czech, and Polish-challenged the church to create a truly American institution. Discussions of the recent impact of Spanish-speaking populations and descriptions of the Santeria and Vodou (Voodoo) sects conclude the chapter. While concentrating on the early 20th century, the chapter on the Jewish experience gives a good picture of the history of Judaism in the U.S. and the changes from European tradition. Much of the text concerning Asian religions covers Chinese, Japanese, and Koreans at the turn of the 20th century, with all-too-brief comments on the Asian-Indian and Muslim communities. Carefully chosen period illustrations round out the volume. A competent look at America's religions through immigrant eyes.

Diane S. Marton, Arlington County Library, VA

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