In this groundbreaking political and cultural history, Josh Zeitz explores how Jewish and Catholic New Yorkers—long seen as outsiders in Protestant-dominated America—redefined their political identity and reshaped Democratic Party politics in the years following World War II.

Through detailed archival research and sharp analysis, White Ethnic New York shows how these communities built coalitions, asserted cultural pride, and contributed to the rise of urban liberalism. Their efforts laid the groundwork for later identity politics and redrew the map of American political life.