Wise, Stephen Samuel (1874-1949), was one of the best-known American Jewish leaders. He became noted for his liberalism and his wide activities in political and social life. He was born on March 17, 1874, in Budapest, Hungary, and came to the United States in 1875. He was educated at the College of the City of New York and Columbia University. He founded the Free Synagogue in New York City in 1907, and served as its rabbi until his death on April 19, 1949. In 1922, he founded the Jewish Institute of Religion and served as its first president. He also helped organize the American Jewish Congress.
Wise was a champion of Zionism, and established the first section of the Federation of American Zionists (see Zionism ). He wrote many books, including How to Face Life (1917) and Child Versus Parent (1922). He also edited the magazine Opinion.
