Final answer:
The statement that early comic artists and writers could not empathize with European Jews because the comic industry was largely non-Jewish is false. The comic industry of the early 20th century had many significant Jewish contributors who brought their experiences into their creative work.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "Early comic artists and writers were unable to empathize with European Jews, as the comic industry was largely a non-Jewish profession." is false. In fact, the comic book industry in the early 20th century was significantly populated by Jewish creators. Many Jewish artists and writers entered the industry at a time when opportunities in more established art forms were closed to them due to anti-Semitic discrimination. They brought their experiences, perspectives, and often a sense of social justice to their work, which resonated with a wide audience, including those of various ethnic backgrounds. This is exemplified by superheroes like Superman, created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, who were both Jewish, and which can be seen as a metaphor for the immigrant experience in America.
Anti-Semitism was a widespread issue beyond just the Nazi regime and affected Jewish populations in many areas. Jews were often denied opportunities due to prejudices and stereotypes, as seen in other industries and academia as well. However, they made significant contributions to the arts and culture, including the comic industry, and thus the original statement is not an accurate portrayal of the demographics of early comic book creators. The Jewish contributions to early comics reflect a broader theme of resilience and creativity amidst societal challenges.