Mapping Assimilation: The Geographic Evolution of Jewish Migration in America (1890-2020)
Location
PANEL: Sociology Honors
King 341
Moderator: Greggor Mattson
Document Type
Presentation - Open Access
Start Date
4-25-2025 11:00 AM
End Date
4-25-2025 12:00 PM
Abstract
This thesis examines how spatial assimilation shaped the geographic migration of American Jews between 1890 and 2020. As Jewish communities moved from urban enclaves to suburban and geographically dispersed areas, their migration patterns reflected broader trends of socioeconomic mobility and cultural integration. This study combines genealogical research with census records and archival data to trace Jewish mobility across multiple generations. A decade-by-decade analysis explores key migration trends, including the transition from immigrant neighborhoods to the suburbs after World War II. The study also examines how Jewish institutions, such as synagogues and schools, adapted to these geographic shifts, balancing assimilation with cultural continuity. By linking migration patterns to theories of spatial assimilation, this research highlights how Jews navigated the dual pressures of integration and identity preservation. Ultimately, this thesis contributes to broader discussions on immigration, urbanization, and the evolving nature of minority identity in America.
Keywords:
Jewish, Assimilation, Migration
Recommended Citation
Rickin-Marks, Abby, "Mapping Assimilation: The Geographic Evolution of Jewish Migration in America (1890-2020)" (2025). Research Symposium. 9.
https://digitalcommons.oberlin.edu/researchsymp/2025/presentations/9
Major
Sociology
Jewish Studies
Project Mentor(s)
Veljko Vujacic, Sociology
Shari Rabin, Jewish Studies and Religion
2025
Mapping Assimilation: The Geographic Evolution of Jewish Migration in America (1890-2020)
PANEL: Sociology Honors
King 341
Moderator: Greggor Mattson
This thesis examines how spatial assimilation shaped the geographic migration of American Jews between 1890 and 2020. As Jewish communities moved from urban enclaves to suburban and geographically dispersed areas, their migration patterns reflected broader trends of socioeconomic mobility and cultural integration. This study combines genealogical research with census records and archival data to trace Jewish mobility across multiple generations. A decade-by-decade analysis explores key migration trends, including the transition from immigrant neighborhoods to the suburbs after World War II. The study also examines how Jewish institutions, such as synagogues and schools, adapted to these geographic shifts, balancing assimilation with cultural continuity. By linking migration patterns to theories of spatial assimilation, this research highlights how Jews navigated the dual pressures of integration and identity preservation. Ultimately, this thesis contributes to broader discussions on immigration, urbanization, and the evolving nature of minority identity in America.
