In late 19th century and early 20th century Eastern Europe most Jews lived in neighborhood know as shtetls. Many immigrant Jews experienced pogroms before the emigrated to America. Discuss some of the conditions faced by Jewish immigrants, as well as immigrants from other backgrounds, when they arrived in America. Early filmmakers were of the old Anglo-American stock. Many of our cultural and familial ideals were shaped by the influence of movies on American life.
Most movies have some sort of love story in their plot line.
Discuss how love is a democratic concept. Discuss the contribution of Irving Berlin to American movies and American culture. Although many Jewish producers and entertainers migrated to Hollywood, many remained on the East Coast and produced Yiddish Theater and Yiddish films. Discuss the reaction, or lack of reaction of Hollywood moguls to the European Holocaust. Extended Activities Create a movie poster for a film made during the early years of Hollywood.