The Cantonists: Resilience and Coercion

This chapter explores the experiences of Jewish Cantonists in 19th-century Russia, highlighting their forced separation from families and the pressures to convert to Christianity. It examines the complexities of identity and societal integration amidst governmental attempts at modernization, as well as the historical role of Jews in the liquor trade and organized crime. The narrative delves into the impact of these factors on local communities, revealing deeper tensions between state policies and societal realities.