Jewish Military Conscription in Russia under Nicholas I

This chapter explores the intricate relationship between the Russian state and Jewish communities during Nicholas I's reign, centering on military conscription and the challenges Jews faced during this period. It highlights the governmental strategies aimed at integrating Jews into Russian society through mandatory military service, while dissecting the resistance from Jewish leaders and the implications for community identity. Additionally, the chapter examines the experiences of conscripted Jewish boys, the pressures they faced, and the broader social dynamics surrounding military recruitment.