"The Scapegoat in Steeltown: Unraveling the Legacy of Morris Lieberman"

Hoosier Jewish Stories: a Indiana Jewish Historical Society Podcast

The essay "The Scapegoat in Steeltown: Unraveling the Legacy of Morris Lieberman" examines the life of Morris Lieberman, a Jewish immigrant and successful pharmacist in Gary, Indiana, during the early 20th century. Lieberman, a respected community member, became the target of a conspiracy theory during the Red Scare of 1919, falsely accused of orchestrating a Bolshevik-style revolution. This scapegoating, fueled by xenophobia and antisemitism, led to significant social upheaval and the deployment of federal troops to Gary. The essay explores the dangers of unfounded conspiracy theories and the impact of historical events on individuals and communities, highlighting Lieberman's resilience and the complexities of immigrant life amid social unrest.