Chapter 1.
A Time of Crisis: 1929-1932
[1.3. The
resolution for a lasting existence of the Joint
1927-1931]
[1927: JDC tactics of
temporary existence changes: JDC structure reform for
longer existence]
For most of the 1920s, as we have seen, JDC thought of
itself as a temporary organization - reflecting the
prevalent illusion of the permanency of Jewish economic
reconstruction after the war. But when the conclusion could
no longer be escaped that JDC would be needed for an
appreciably longer period of time than had been originally
anticipated, a decision was made in 1927 to reorganize JDC
on a more permanent basis.
[May 1929-17 March 1931:
JDC structure: Foundation of a reorganization committee of
18 under Louis Marshall - registration in New York]
In May 1929 a reorganization committee of 18 was formed
under Louis Marshall; this committee made its report on
January 15, 1930, after his death. It was accepted and,
after some minor modifications, resulted in the setting up
of a new corporation registered in New York State on March
17, 1931, under the name of the American Jewish Joint
Distribution Committee, Inc.
[Since 17 March 1931: New
mood of stability in the JDC]
This new mood of stability was reflected in the fieldwork of
JDC. In 1927-29 long-term reconstruction plans were
considered, on the assumption that prosperity in the Western
world would continue uninterrupted. (p.27)