Jewish Identity and Nationalism in Tsarist Russia

This chapter explores the intricate relationship between Jewish communities and their integration into Russian society during the reign of Alexander II. It examines the shifts from assimilationist beliefs to a growing sense of national consciousness among Jews, influenced by historical events and the evolving perceptions of Russian society. The discussions highlight tensions between cultural acceptance and the preservation of Jewish identity, alongside the complex dynamics of loyalty and self-interest within the Jewish populace.