Progressivism originated as an Anglo-American alternative to socialism and populism in the late 19th century, serving as a way for the wealthy elite to fight for reforms without threatening the larger Anglo-liberal tradition or Protestant moral norms.

Jonathan D. Sarna discusses the complex legacy of Woodrow Wilson in relation to Jewish history, highlighting Wilson's positive actions towards Jews such as supporting Louis Brandeis' Supreme Court nomination and endorsing the Balfour Declaration for a Jewish national home in Palestine.

Louis D. Brandeis: American Prophet discusses the historical significance of Louis D. Brandeis, the first Jewish nominee to the Supreme Court in 1916.