American Interests in the Holy Land Revealed in Early Photographs

American Interests in the Holy Land provides a unique and visual history of the American fascination and dedication to a Jewish national home. Jewish life in the holy land reawakened during the 19th century, but photographs from the period are scarce. Collecting images from the archives of the Library of Congress, the Ottoman Imperial Archives, the NY Public Library, university and church libraries worldwide, and family albums, Lenny Ben-David provides a unique visual history of the American fascination and dedication to a Jewish national home in the Holy Land. Short photo essays include details details such as why Lincoln wanted to visit Jerusalem, how the U.S. Navy saved the Jews of Palestine in 1915, why the Chief Rabbi of Palestine visited the White House in 1924, where Mark Twain stayed in Jerusalem, and much more.