author
H. A. (Henry Abraham) Henry
1800–1879
A London-born rabbi, educator, and Hebraist who helped shape Jewish life in early San Francisco, he is remembered as the first Orthodox rabbi to serve the American West. His writing brought Jewish history to young readers and general audiences in clear, accessible form.
1 Audiobook
Synopsis of Jewish History From the Return of the Jews from the Babylonish Captivity, to the Days of Herod the Great
by H. A. (Henry Abraham) Henry
About the author
Born in London around 1800, Henry Abraham Henry was educated at the Jews' Free School and later became its principal. He was known as a teacher and Hebraist before immigrating to the United States, where he continued his work as a rabbi and educator.
In the 1850s he settled in San Francisco and became an important figure in the city's Jewish community. He is especially noted as the first Orthodox rabbi to serve the American West, helping lead Congregation Shearith Israel during a formative period in California Jewish history.
Henry also wrote for readers beyond the synagogue. His best-known book, A Synopsis of Jewish History (1859), presents a concise account of Jewish history for students and general audiences, reflecting his lifelong interest in teaching. He died in San Francisco in 1879.