"Jews and Booze: Becoming American in the Age of Prohibition"

This lecture focuses on the relationship between Jews and the liquor industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Georgia State University assistant professor of history Marni Davis will discuss topics covered in her book, Jews and Booze: Becoming American in the Age of Prohibition. Find out how, at the turn of the 20th century, Jewish immigrants accounted for around 3 percent of the population in Louisville, KY, yet represented 25 percent of the booze trade as liquor producers and dealers. You'll also learn how certain Prohibitionists, including Henry Ford, vilified Jewish involvement in the industry. Reservations for the free talk are required; call or e-mail fas.hjst.events@nyu.edu.