Judaism American Jew or Jewish American

[Channalee]

Actually, my question had nothing to do with citizenship. Nor did my question have anything to do with differentiating between citizens. This was not about hyphenating Americans. 

The question I posed was this, "Are you an American Jew or a Jewish American?" Keep in mind that the question was posed in the context of the class subject. If you don't understand the question, I will explain.

Yes, please explain.  Thank you.

...Or, don't.

LOL

Essentially, the question is about how you identify primarily. By calling yourself an "American Jew," you identify first as a type of Jew (specifically, an American one). By identifying as a "Jewish American," you identify first as a type of American (a Jewish one). It's a question of essential identity.

In Israel we talk mostly about "American Jews" rather than "Jewish Americans," as far as I'm aware. That is, at least in the sources that I listen to. יהודים מאמריקה "Jews from America." That would be opposed to something like אמריקאים עם רקע יהודי "Americans with a Jewish background."

Ah, okay.  But do the Jews themselves who come from America and choose to live in Israel go around identifying themselves as "American Jews"? 

I think it all kind of relates to the issue of whether a Jew also feels it's necessary to additionally explain to others all the time as to what branch of Judaism he/she belongs to.  
 
The reason I don't really care so much for these kinds of labels, is that it gives people preconceived notions about who you are or what you believe or what your politics may happen to be.  Obviously there will be preconceived notions about anyone who simply identifies as being a Jew, but I don't much see the point of adding additional layers of interpretation to it – along with additional reasons for someone to believe they've got you "all figured out."