Jewish Merchants in 18th Century Russia

This chapter explores the rise of Jewish merchants in Moscow and Smolensk during the late 18th century, detailing their economic interactions with local Russian businesses and the tensions that arose from allegations of unfair practices. It examines the historical policies affecting Jewish residency and the privileges they enjoyed, particularly under Catherine the Great, and discusses the implications of these dynamics on the broader Russian society. Furthermore, the chapter addresses the socio-economic challenges faced by both Jews and the Russian state, setting the stage for future transformations in the treatment and perception of Jewish communities in Russia.