When it comes to the rise of antisemitism, there is plenty of blame to go around. It’s obvious that anti-Semitism is not a new phenomenon, having been in the world for centuries, but it seems to have taken a new and dangerous turn. It would be easy to blame the Left, or the antisemites or the anti-Zionists for the rise in temperature, since all these groups have contributed to this current state of violence and hatred, but much of the anti-Jewish agenda finds its support from the Jews themselves.

For most of its existence, America was probably known as the most tolerant and liberal country in the world. Even George Washington extended his hopes for the future of the Jews in a letter he sent to the synagogue in Newport Rhode Island. In part, it said:

It would be inconsistent with the frankness of my character not to avow that I am pleased with your favorable opinion of my Administration, and fervent wishes for my felicity. May the Children of the Stock of Abraham, who dwell in this land, continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other Inhabitants; while every one shall sit in safety under his own vine and figtree, and there shall be none to make him afraid. May the father of all mercies scatter light and not darkness in our paths, and make us all in our several vocations useful here, and in his own due time and way everlastingly happy.

Even today Jews point to this eloquent and generous letter, grounded in America’s founding principles, which gave Jews much hope for their lives in this land of opportunity.

As the Jews settled in as apparently accepted members of society, they........

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