7. Ashkenazic Jews and the Eastern European Economy to 1648
Jewish History Lectures
The lecture, delivered at Lander College for Men, explores the economic roles and impacts of Ashkenazic Jews in Eastern Europe up until the significant year of 1648. This was a pivotal time for Jewish communities as they were deeply intertwined with the economic fabric of Eastern Europe, engaging in trade, moneylending, and other activities, despite facing various societal limitations and antisemitism. The year 1648 marks the beginning of the Khmelnytsky Uprising, which led to severe repercussions for Jewish communities across the region. The discussion provides context on how Jews contributed to and were affected by the socio-economic environment of Eastern Europe during this period.