How Antisemitic Conspiracy Theories Contributed to the Recent Hostage-Taking at the Texas Synagogue
For The Conversation, Jonathan Sarna writes about the connection between the recent hostage crisis at a Texas synagogue and antisemitic conspiracy theories that have permeated culture for centuries. Sarna specifically focuses on the gunman’s belief that Jews are in control of the world, citing American propaganda from as early as the 1800s that espoused the same beliefs. He writes, “Precisely because they offer a simple explanation – ‘the Jews are responsible’ – and flatter believers into thinking they possess secret knowledge others lack, conspiracy theories […] are notoriously difficult to disprove.”