The Other 1492: Jewish Settlement in the New World

by Norman H. Finkelstein

Mention 1492 and most people conjure up images of three stout ships making their way west. But 1492 was the year in which the vibrant Jewish community of Spain came to an abrupt and tragic end. This book details the expulsion of the Jews from Spain and Portugal and their early immigration to the New World. European anti-Semitism followed the Jews but the newcomers persevered and made a home for themselves in the New World. Starred Review and Editors Choice, Booklist, NCCS/CBC Notable Childrens Trade Book and American Bookseller Pick of the Lists, 1990.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

116 pages, Paperback

First published October 30, 1989

About the author

Norman H. Finkelstein is the author of eighteen nonfiction books, mainly for young readers. He recently retired as a school librarian for the Brookline (Massachusetts) Public Schools but continues into his 32nd year of teaching history in the Prozdor Department of Hebrew College. Among his writing honors are two National Jewish Book Awards, the Golden Kite Honor Book Award for Nonfiction and a "highly recommended" award from the Boston Author's Club.

His interest in history and biography developed early. "I was the only kid in the sixth grade who regularly read the New York Times," he said. His books reflect an eclectic view of his world. From his love of old-time radio came Sounds in the Air: The Golden Age of Radio and from his fascination with plastics came a social and cultural history called, simple enough, Plastics. He also served as the series editor for the Jewish Publication Society's JPS Guides.

He is married to Rosalind who he calls "my first-line editor". They have three grown children and three grandchildren. Finkelstein lives in Framingham, Massachusetts.

(source)

Reviews

[Molly · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's juvenile non-fiction, but it addresses an historical event that not many adult books cover. I liked it- it was well-written (for children) and easy enough to read. The text got a bit windy, and near the end it seemed like a bit of a stretch. But it's something kids should read about in addition to all of the propaganda about Columbus.

[Cynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Currently I say:
This history book written for young people is packed with crucial information on the history of Jewish people from 1492 to the creation of synagogueseses in New York (and a mention of Rhode Island congregation).
Since my family came from Spain in the 1700 and 1800see and were likely Jewish, my heartaches at the difficulties my family members experienced in exerting their right to Religous Protection and the Pursuit of Happiness.

Previously I wrote:
I come from a family that were new Christians/Marranos as many of the names in my family tree end in z/zeta, be it Rodriguez, Gonzalez....
I found interesting that Levy, a new refugee to New Amsterdam, started our long chain of civil rights court cases. As a hispanic woman, I am grateful to Levy's braveheart.

[Jordan Burns · Rating 4 out of 5]

Provides an interesting and accessible account of the Spanish Inquisition. Good for middle and high school students.

[Dan · Rating 1 out of 5]

Only somewhat makes up for its lack of citation with brevity.

[Isabelle Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it and I could totally relate to the book because it tells the story of my family in Western Europe, but also how one part of my husband's family came to the new world!

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good juvenile history about the Spanish expulsion of about 200,000 Jews and related European expulsions. It requires a discussion with any young reader, however, as it does not once address the fact that the Americas were inhabited by many millions of people prior to European contact. This book uses outdated expressions like “Columbus discovering the New World.” It’s good on the Jewish history, but the native side needs addressing. I’m guessing this is for ages 11 and up.

[Mel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting book! I learned a lot! Quick read too.

[Kim]

A great insight into what happened to at least some of the Sephardic Jews upon being expelled from Spain in that anno mirabili. My only objection is the "New World" in the title. That world was one of ancient and complex civilizations rivalling those of the "old world."

[Eliezer Sneiderman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think every Jew should be familiar with the History of the Inquisition. Not too long ago that Jews weren't burnt regularly in the public square. Makes a person think twice about visiting Spain or admiring the Pope.