Henry Ford’s book, The International Jew, was a work of anti-Semitic propaganda that he published
in 1920. The book was widely condemned by critics and historians, and it has been credited with
contributing to the rise of anti-Semitism in the United States.
Ford’s motivation for writing the book is complex and not fully understood. However, there are a
number of factors that may have played a role. Ford was a deeply religious man, and he believed that
the Jews were responsible for the spread of atheism and socialism. He was also a staunch isolationist,
and he believed that the Jews were using their wealth and influence to push the United States into war.
In addition to these personal beliefs, Ford was also influenced by the anti-Semitic ideas that were
circulating in the United States at the time. The early 20th century was a period of great social and
economic upheaval, and many Americans were looking for scapegoats for their problems. The Jews, who
were often seen as outsiders and foreigners, became an easy target for this scapegoating.
The International Jew was a massive success for Ford. The book sold millions of copies and was
translated into many languages. It also helped to make Ford one of the most popular and influential
men in the United States.
However, the book was also highly controversial. Critics condemned it as a work of hate speech, and it
helped to fuel anti-Semitism in the United States. Ford eventually apologized for writing the book, but
the damage had already been done.
Today, The International Jew is considered to be one of the most notorious works of anti-Semitic
literature ever written. It is a reminder of the dangers of prejudice and intolerance, and it serves as a
warning against the consequences of scapegoating.
APA References
Ford, H. (1920). The international Jew: The world’s foremost problem. Dearborn Publishing Company.
Lipstadt, S. (2016). Antisemitism: A history. Oxford University Press.
Novick, P. (2002). The origins of the enemy: Zionism and the Jews of Europe. Princeton University Press.