The Struggles and Resilience of Jewish Cantonists

This chapter examines the experiences of Cantonists, Jewish children conscripted into the Russian military, highlighting the challenges of forced conversions and societal pressures. It emphasizes the resilience of many who retained their faith despite adversities and critiques historical narratives surrounding the nature of these conversions. Additionally, the chapter explores the broader socio-economic context of Jewish communities in Russia, particularly their complex relationship with the alcohol trade and its societal implications.