Question about Jewish people...PLEASE no smart azz remarks Im serious.....?

I guess I could probably just google this but Im curious, what exactly is the Jewish religion? I mean what is SO different about the Jews than other people?? Im not trying to be rude or anything buit Im honestly curious as to this culture/religion/way of life.....do you have to be born Jewish to be of this religion or can you marry in? Just some basic facts & information woul dbe greatly appreciated....Thanks much in advance, Im just trying to broaden my knowledge on different cultures n such.