Meaning: The quote "Who cares about that stuff? This is America, not Jerusalem. I'm an American. Let Harry be a Jew." by Arnold Rothstein, a businessman, is a reflection of the complex and often fraught relationship between cultural identity and national identity in the United States. It encapsulates the tension between individual cultural and religious affiliations and the broader notion of American identity.

The quote suggests a dismissive attitude towards the significance of religious and cultural heritage, indicating a desire to prioritize American identity over any other affiliations. By stating "This is America, not Jerusalem," Rothstein seems to be emphasizing the idea that in America, one's national identity should take precedence over any specific religious or cultural background.

Arnold Rothstein, a prominent figure in the early 20th century, was known for his involvement in various business ventures, including gambling and bootlegging during the Prohibition era. His quote reflects a mindset that was likely prevalent among certain segments of American society at the time, and continues to resonate in contemporary discussions about identity and belonging.

The quote can be interpreted in several ways. On one hand, it can be seen as a reflection of the assimilationist approach that has been historically prevalent in the United States, wherein individuals are encouraged to adopt and prioritize American cultural norms and values over their own cultural or religious backgrounds. This approach has often been associated with the idea of the "melting pot," where diverse cultural and ethnic identities are expected to blend into a homogeneous American identity.

On the other hand, the quote also raises questions about the tension between assimilation and the preservation of cultural and religious heritage. By stating "Let Harry be a Jew," Rothstein appears to acknowledge that individuals may have different cultural or religious affiliations, but still asserts the primacy of American identity. This reflects a more nuanced perspective that recognizes the diversity of identities within American society while also asserting a common national identity.

The quote also touches on the historical and ongoing debates surrounding the concept of American identity. The United States has been shaped by waves of immigration and the contributions of diverse cultural and religious groups. This diversity has given rise to discussions about the extent to which individuals should assimilate into a broader American identity, and the degree to which they can maintain and celebrate their own cultural and religious traditions.

Furthermore, the quote raises important questions about the relationship between individual identity and national identity. It prompts us to consider how individuals navigate their multiple identities and allegiances, and how these intersect with the broader concept of being American. The tension between cultural and national identity is a central theme in the ongoing discourse about diversity, inclusion, and belonging in American society.

In conclusion, Arnold Rothstein's quote "Who cares about that stuff? This is America, not Jerusalem. I'm an American. Let Harry be a Jew." encapsulates the complex and multifaceted nature of identity in the United States. It reflects the tension between individual cultural and religious affiliations and the broader notion of American identity, and raises important questions about assimilation, diversity, and belonging in American society.