Jonathan Kaufman

Kaufman reflects on complex intersections of race, identity, and geopolitics through his work. With a career that traverses journalism and academia, he engages deeply with themes of Jewish history and race relations, both in the United States and globally. His method involves weaving rigorous research with engrossing narrative journalism, which humanizes the intricacies of historical and social issues. Kaufman’s early book, "Broken Alliance: The Turbulent Times Between Blacks and Jews in America", showcases this approach by providing balanced insights into racial dynamics, earning him the National Jewish Book Award. His focus on systemic inequalities and cultural identity resonates throughout his career, whether reporting from China as a Beijing Bureau Chief for "The Wall Street Journal" or leading teams to Pulitzer-winning coverage at Bloomberg News.\n\nReaders and students of journalism and history benefit from Kaufman’s work, as it illuminates crucial social narratives across diverse contexts. His contributions extend beyond writing, influencing journalism education as the Director of the School of Journalism at Northeastern University, where his leadership fosters new explorations of race and identity in media. Another notable book, "A Hole in the Heart of the World: Being Jewish in Eastern Europe", further exemplifies his commitment to uncovering the stories of Jewish communities during tumultuous periods, earning acclaim as a finalist for the National Jewish Book Award. His exploration of the Sassoon and Kadoorie families in "The Last Kings of Shanghai" connects these historical narratives with broader geopolitical and economic themes, demonstrating his adeptness at situating personal stories within global contexts.\n\nKaufman's distinguished career is marked by a commitment to bringing marginalized voices and stories to light, earning recognition through numerous awards, including two Pulitzer Prizes. This short bio underscores his impact as both an author and an educator, charting a path that continues to influence how race and identity are discussed and understood in contemporary discourse.