Interview begins with Rubin's description of his parents, Joseph Rubin (1883-1938) and Bessie Peskin Rubin, and their immigration to the United States from Poland. He concentrates particularly on his father's first business venture in California and eventual move to Norway, South Carolina, where the Rubins were the only Jewish family. Rubin recalls his father's general store there and the amicable relationships between Jewish merchants and the African American community. The family moved to Columbia, South Carolina, in the 1920s and established a wholesale dry goods business, where all members were expected to work. Rubin provides details about his childhood and mentions that although his family were members at a conservative synagogue, they did not adhere to strict Jewish customs. He also mentions attitudes regarding the relationship between German Jews and Eastern European Jews in America. Rubin summarizes his college days at the University of South Carolina and University of North Carolina and the various fraternal and literary organizations he joined. Remainder of interview is devoted to Rubin's political career. He describes his entreĢe (1952) into politics as a Columbia city councilman and eventual election (1966) to the South Carolina Senate. Notable are Rubin's recollections of Columbia's desegregation issues during the 1960s and his belief in and aid to non-violent transition. He mentions relationships with other South Carolina politicians, including Sen. Rembert Dennis, Sen. Marion Gressette, and Rep. Solomon Blatt (1895-1986). The interview ends with a discussion of Rubin's immediate family and their various accomplishments.
