On this day, 1913, Solomon Schechter established the United Synagogue of America. Schechter was a pivotal figure in developing the Jewish Conservative movement across North America. He was a Talmudic scholar who had extensive travel experience through his education that focused on researching the history of Judaism and Jewish cultures around the world. It was his desire to create a form of governing unity that led to the establishment of this organization.The United Synagogue of America organization eventually grew from 23 to over 800 congregations, drawing families together through the practice of conservative Judaism. The view of Judaism as more than religion, but a way of life and daily culture, was what Schechter saw as the means of a unifying body. This organization has become a pillar for Jewish education, leading the way for the publication of textbooks, ideas, and curricula regarding Judaism and Jewish life. With its greater than 100 year existence, the United Synagogue of America has been a powerhouse of human rights advocacy and awareness to global issues beyond American Jewish Conservatism. Dr. Schechter’s background in education has paved the way for a motive of the United Synagogue of America to instill Jewish learning at its core. Since its inception in 1913, the youth and programming departments have continued to evolve and thrive; having total commitment to Jewish education has built an American-Jewish love for Israel that harbors a sense of loyalty and unity. Pilgrimages to Israel, preparing meals for the poor, and Jewish athletics, are all examples of what the United Synagogue of America’s youth departments have overseen over the years. The Department of Education has also developed educational material for Jews across America that ties into what the youth divisions receive.Observing Shabbat has been important to this development since 1913. The United Synagogue of America emphasizes Jewish life through synagogue attendance and participation, such as attending Shabbat services. Zionism, and the Zionist dedication of Israel as the Jewish homeland, has also been crucial for Jewish life and what the organization promotes both at synagogue and at home. The United Synagogue of America has also recognized that Jewish issues are world issues. It is for this reason that it values diversity, inclusion, and the participation of Jews on a global scale. Although Dr. Schechter only lived for two more years after starting this movement, it has continued to develop extensively.