THE INFLUENCE OF THE PRESS AND PUBLIC DISCOURSE ON THE TRANSFORMATION OF JEWISH DIASPORA IDENTITY IN THE UNITED STATES (1930S-1940S)

Abstract

The first half of the twentieth century was one of the most tragic and tumultuous periods in world history, significantly changing the lives and identities of millions of people, including Jews. The Jewish diaspora living in the United States, which was still a result of new immigration, encountered the economic crisis of the "Great Depression" in the 1930s and the devastating events of World War II in the 1940s.

During this period, the role of the press and public discourse became especially significant. Media was the channel through which Jewish society's identity was shaped and, at the same time, the broader society's attitude toward the Jewish community was formed.

The article discusses the role of American press and public discourse in the transformation of Jewish identity during and after World War II. Specifically, it explores how American press publications in the 1930s and 1940s, against the backdrop of significant events such as the "Great Depression," the Holocaust, and World War II, addressed Jewish issues. Given that these historical events were pivotal in shaping American Jewish identity, it is important to examine the media narratives that influenced the public and cultural self-perception of American Jews. The study focuses on both general mass publications and specialized Jewish-themed magazines to highlight differing perspectives and their impact on the social, cultural, and political assimilation process of Jews.

Keywords: Jewish Diaspora, World War II, Holocaust, Press, Identity, American Society.