Harry Greenstein, son of a Russian immigrant, grew up in a devout Baltimore household where he learned ""the habit of...

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JUSTICE--NOT CHARITY

Harry Greenstein, son of a Russian immigrant, grew up in a devout Baltimore household where he learned ""the habit of giving."" It stayed with him throughout his life as a social welfare worker and administrator. He served his apprenticeship as president of the Baltimore YMHA, went on to head the Associated Jewish Charities there. During the Depression he was sought for the post of State Welfare Administrator, later for the Executive Directorship of the Federation of Jewish Philanthropies in New York (he turned the latter down to remain in Baltimore). In the 1930's he visited Russia on a study mission, interviewed Trotsky; in the 1940's he served as a Colonel in UNRRA heading the Middle East activities and met Henrietta Szold, Chief Rabbi Herzog, Pope Plus XII, Chaim Weizmann. After World War II, he advised Colonel Clay on Jewish affairs, worked for the DPs and the Jews remaining in Germany, evolved ""from social worker to statesman."" It is an interesting, useful life of which the authors make neither too much nor too little, although the specific audience is difficult to pinpoint.

Pub Date: April 10, 1967

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Crown

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 1, 1967

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