Citizens of the State: Colorado’s Early Jewish Politicians, 1859-1940

For Jews settling in the American West during the 19th and 20th centuries, participation in civic and political life was an important part of building new communities. The United States offered Jews an unprecedented opportunity to participate as full citizens, while Jewish tradition emphasized communal responsibility. As pioneer community builders, Jewish settlers helped establish many of the West’s basic institutions and, from the earliest days of Colorado’s development, played a central role in shaping the state’s political life. Many served as councilmen, mayors, and representatives, with one even going on to become a U.S. senator from Colorado.