Question

In 1909 the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People was founded by African-American activist W.E.B. Dubois and a group of Jewish Americans. Why did Jewish Americans historically ally themselves politically with African Americans?

a. They thought it was important to build relationships with all groups.
b. They felt they both had had similar experiences with prejudice.
c. They believed it would add to their political power.
d. They could not find any other group to ally with.

Answer 1

b. They felt they both had had similar experiences with prejudice.

African Americans and Jews alike experienced segregation, lynching, and discrimination.

The NAACP was established as a group to address the discrimination occurring in the US. Members were generally educated and attempted to work within the political system. The group saw little success until after World War II.

Answer 2

"b. They felt they both had had similar experiences with prejudice" would be the best option, since both African Americans and Jews had been persecuted against heavily, although it should be noted that both experience were not the same.