This series is about the struggle of a tiny minority to make its way into the American mainstream. While the story of Jewish life in America is emblematic of the American immigrant story, it is also a unique story of on-going discrimination and stereotyping coupled with some of the most remarkable accomplishments in American history, the arts, commerce, science and academia. Beginning with the first Jews to arrive in New Amsterdam in the 17th century, the film offers a portrait of a people who epitomize the immigrant experience. Even as they have faced bigotry and rejection, Jews have embraced American culture while keeping alive their traditions and heritage.