Author Description

For the first time, Religion and State in the American Jewish Experience makes available critical documents which have shaped debate over religion and state issues throughout the course of American Jewish history. Following a comprehensive historical introduction, Professors Jonathan D. Sarna and David G. Dalin present a wide range of primary source materials which articulate the different positions held within the American Jewish community on numerous past and present church-state issues, including the constitutionality of former state Sunday Laws, or "blue laws"; whether or not Orthodox Jews serving in the military should be permitted to wear yarmulkes while in uniform; whether Jewish prisoners have a right to kosher food; whether prayer, nonsectarian or otherwise, should have any role in public schools; whether menorahs should be displayed alongside Christian symbols such as creches during the Christmas season; or whether all types of religious symbols should be banned from public arenas.