Rise of Reform Judaism

Discover the rich history of the Jewish Reform Movement with "Rise of Reform Judaism" by W. Gunther Plaut, published by the Jewish Publication Society in 2015. This fiftieth anniversary edition is a must-have for anyone interested in the evolution of reform thought, updated with a new introduction by Howard A. Berman. Spanning 277 pages, Plaut meticulously examines the movement's first century, tracing its roots from the influential eighteenth-century figure Moses Mendelssohn through to the pivotal Augsburg synod in 1871. This compelling narrative not only highlights key events and figures but also provides insights into the cultural and social contexts that shaped reform Judaism in the United States. Whether you're a scholar, a student of Jewish history, or someone seeking to deepen your understanding of this significant religious movement, "Rise of Reform Judaism" offers an engaging and informative exploration of its origins and impact.