The Complex Legacy of Jewish Persecution and Identity

This chapter explores the historical dynamics affecting Jewish communities, emphasizing the sociopolitical factors that influenced perceptions and treatment of Jews, particularly in Eastern Europe. It traces the evolution of anti-Semitism alongside Jewish emancipation, revealing the intricate relationship between societal upheavals and the scapegoating of Jews. Additionally, the chapter critiques the responses within the Jewish community, including the rise of nationalism and the tensions surrounding Zionism amid a backdrop of changing political landscapes.