Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book describes the political ties between the United States and Israel as they have evolved since 1948. It provides a background for the reader by presenting an overview of US-Israeli relations from 1948 to 2000, giving the basic dynamics of the relationship until the George W. Bush and Barack Obama administrations. The central goal is to enable the reader with a comprehensive understanding of the US-Israeli relationship, as it has evolved since 1948. The book deals with religious and communal issues affecting the US-Israeli relationship. It explores the ties between America's Orthodox Jewish community and the state of Israel, what can be called a "special relationship" between American evangelical Christians and Israel, and the role of the American Jewish peace movement and Israel.