Sad but true... the ignorance is cultivated and maintained.  Anybody  who is awake and lives in the US can attest to that.  It's embarrassing. In the past, I never understood why the US continues to be bedfellows with Israel.  I don't think it's just the Jewish vote. (Although that's why no presidential candidate mentions Palestinian rights during the campaign).  Once anyone gets into office (especially for a second term) they could apply hella pressure on Israel.  But no.... Why not?  As Linda McQuaig wrote, "It's the crude, dude."  A militarily secure Israel protects Big Oil interests.  Americans are not only ignorant, but addicted to oil.  A very dangerous combination, as we have all seen.