1970s: There are approximately 5.5 million Jews living in the United States, of which about 1.2 million live in New York City. Jews make up approximately 15 percent of the population of New York City.

Today: There are approximately 6 million Jews living in the United States, of which just under 1 million live in New York City. Jews make up 12 percent of the population of New York City.

1970s: While Jews account for less than 2 percent of the United States' population, approximately 80 percent of the country's comedians are Jewish. Most of them are from New York City.

Today: Jews make up 2.5 percent of the United States' population, while 70 percent of the country's comedians are of Jewish descent. Most of them are from New York City.

1970s: Lorne Michaels's television comedy program Saturday Night Live premieres. Nearly all the writers who work on the show are Jewish.

Today: Saturday...