Challenges of Jewish Military Service in the 19th Century

This chapter explores the difficulties faced by Jewish individuals in fulfilling military service obligations in 1860s Russia, including evasion tactics and societal discrimination. It highlights the transition from conscription to universal military service, revealing the disproportionate shortfall of Jewish recruits compared to their Christian counterparts. The narrative delves into the cultural implications, communal decision-making, and the societal tensions that shaped Jewish participation in the military during this period.