History for the Curious - The Jewish History Podcast

How do you survive lying alone in a grave for 2 months? Where does a teenager find the determination and belief to overcome betrayal, loss and danger through the terrible years of war?

What would you do if you were told a truth which you could not do anything about, but which would change lives forever?

Who were the Kapos? Listen to an unknown story of tragedy and heroism. A Kapo in Auschwitz. A family pulled apart. A truth eventually uncovered.

Two prominent Jews in Parliament, the sinking of the Titanic and insider share trading made up the ingredients of a scandal that threatened the foundations of the UK Government - 2/2

Two prominent Jews in Parliament, the sinking of the Titanic and insider share trading made up the ingredients of a scandal that threatened the foundations of the UK Government - Part 1 of 2

In the 19th century, Jews may not become Members of Parliament. But somehow they get elected anyway. Apostasy, division and determination, in pursuit of the greatest political goal: Prime Minister of Britain. The story of the Disraelis 

Why was a Jew subjected to an excommunication in 1705, that was never revoked? And how did it create a power struggle in the Ashkenzai community of England?   

Jews lived across England from 1070 onwards, but 600 of them were imprisoned in the Tower of London in 1278? Why? And how did the Jews add Hebrew words to the English medieval language?

Denmark’s bankruptcy gave Rothschild the opportunity he had been pursuing for 30 years, leaving a wake of furious Christian bankers behind him. A branch opens in London and the founder now changes to Family Rothschild, but Judaism remains uppermost. Napoleon’s invasion forces the Rothschilds underground and secrecy, diplomacy and speed become the bywords of the dynasty.    Trip Details: Join us in exploring Jewish history across Austria, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia with Rabbis Aubrey Hersh and Akiva Tatz. Limited spots available—contact Giana at giana.elav@gmail.com for details.   Chapters 00:00 The Rise of the Rothschild Dynasty 02:50 The Rothschild Family Structure and Dynamics 08:56 Challenges and Triumphs in the Ghetto 11:47 The Impact of War on Rothschild's Wealth 15:07 The Role of Secrecy in Rothschild's Success 18:00 The Legacy of Charity and Community 20:54 Political Maneuvering and Emancipation 24:11 The Rothschilds and the Napoleonic Wars 26:59 The Transformation into International Bankers 33:04 The Enduring Legacy of the Rothschild Family

The very name conjures up images of immense wealth, of banks and private government deals. It is accompanied by numerous conspiracy theories and unlikely legends. But the beginnings of the dynasty occurred in the overcrowded and isolated confines of the uninhabitable ghetto of Frankfurt. He rose to become the wealthiest Jew in Germany whilst remaining a Jew enclosed in a ghetto. It is a story that has never really been told. One that saw fortunes being lost and gained and that occured in the most unlikely of historical circumstances.   Summary This conversation explores the life and legacy of Mayer Amschel Rothschild, detailing his unlikely rise to wealth as a Jew in 18th century Frankfurt. It delves into the socio-economic conditions of the time, the anti-Semitic environment, and the significant events that shaped his fortune, including the French Revolution. The discussion highlights Rothschild's early ventures, his connections with influential figures, and the business landscape of Frankfurt, ultimately leading to the establishment of the Rothschild banking dynasty.   Takeaways The Rothschild name has become synonymous with immense wealth, yet Rothschild's rise to wealth could not have been foreseen . Life in the Judengasse was harsh and restrictive for Jews for many centuries. Frankfurt was a significant business hub in the 18th century. Rothschild's early ventures included trading coins and banking. His connections with royalty were crucial to his success. The French Revolution created opportunities for Rothschild. Within a decade afterwards, Rothschild and his sons became millionaires.     Chapters 04:20 Conspiracy theories 07:57 Life in Frankfurt's Judengasse 15:09 The Business Landscape of 18th Century Frankfurt 26:09 Rothschild's Early Ventures and Connections 29:30 Crown Prince William of Cassel-Hesse 37:58 The Impact of the French Revolution      

The question behind all our podcasts? What can we learn? How does it change us. Our matched funds campaign is now live. If you enjoy History for the Curious, Please sponsor our continued podcasts: www.charityextra.com/jle/podcast   The link will be live all of this week

During the 20th century, a number of individuals devoted their lives to helping the Jewish People; determined, courageous and innovative. Their fundraising efforts had an enormous impact on the Jewish world. Their stories need to be heard.    Charity also raises Halachic dilemmas for donors and recipients alike. And then there is a unique opportunity to introduce a History for the Curious podcast !   Join our fundraiser this week, to help double our audience. Link goes live on Motze Shabbos 2nd November -  www.charityextra.com/jle/podcast     Summary This conversation explores significant moments in Jewish fundraising history: people, events and campaigns. It emphasizes the importance of charity and community support and delves into the historical context of Jewish fundraising efforts, particularly in the aftermath of World War II. It highlights the transformative power of community support, the guilt felt by American Jewry for not doing enough during the war, and the significant contributions made by individuals like Henry Morgenthau. The discussion also touches on the evolution of fundraising methods, including the rise of online platforms that democratize giving. Halakhic perspectives on fundraising practices are also explored, such as revealing names of donors and repayments for loans   Takeaways WWI brought various Jewish organisations together to help Jews internationally. Rabbi Elya Chaim Meisels played a crucial role in building Lodz's infrastructure and exemplified selflessness. The Ponovezher Rov's efforts saved many lives during the war. True fundraising requires a deep understanding of the cause. Building a future is more important than memorializing the past. The impact of individual donors can transform communities. Historic fundraising campaigns have shaped the Jewish community's response to crises. The ongoing struggle for Jewish survival is echoed in historical fundraising efforts. Halakhic issues play a crucial role in the ethics of fundraising. Online fundraising has transformed how charities engage with donors.    Chapters 03:03 Fundraising History: A Chilly Evening in Chicago 10:36 Rabbi Elya Chaim Meisels: His foresight and his support of scholars, trade unionists and cholera victims 16:53 The Ponovezher Rov: Resilience and Courage After the Holocaust 29:33 Historic Fundraising Campaigns Post-WWII 33:25 Guilt and Responsibility in Fundraising 39:13 The Fight for a Jewish State and Golda Meir’s financial campaign 43:57 Halakhic Fundraising Dilemmas 51:01 The Evolution of Online Fundraising 54:45  Win the chance to introduce a History for the Curious Podcast

His arrival to England was accompanied both by miracles and threats. Soon thereafter he was elected as the Av Beis Din in London, where he faced many battles: the non-religious lay leadership, the dangers of the Blitz during WWII and a family that was becoming fragmented. His tenacity and resilience saw him succeed and his influence on British Jewry extends to the present day. Moving to Eretz Yisrael in 1951 brought new challenges and new opportunities for Torah. However his son Chimen was an enigma to the end; a genius who fought for the Jews but lost his Judaism.     Summary This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Dayan Abramsky, a prominent Jewish leader in London during the mid 20th century. It explores his resilience through adversity, his commitment to maintaining kosher standards, and his significant role in the Jewish community during World War II.  The discussion highlights almost miraculous escapes and the personal sacrifices made by him and his family. This conversation delves into the life and legacy, exploring the complexities of his family dynamics, particularly the ideological conflicts faced by his son Chimen, who became a communist despite his father's religious background. Anecdotes and reflections on his character and teachings provide a rich context for understanding his contributions to Jewish life and thought.   Takeaways Dayan Abramsky was instrumental in raising the standards of Judaism in England. Courtroom battles highlighted the importance of truth in Jewish law. Abramsky’s family faced immense struggles during the Soviet era. Innovative solutions were necessary to address wartime challenges. Chimen's political journey reflects a complex relationship with his father's legacy. influence on British Jewry is still felt today. The contradictions in Chimen's life highlight the complexities of identity.   Chapters 00:00 The Miraculous Stories of Survival 06:35 Challenges of Jewish Leadership in London 10:51 The Fight for Kosher Standards 15:29 Courtroom Battles and Upholding Truth 17:56 Family Struggles and Personal Sacrifices 20:19 Community Engagement and Responsibilities 23:09 Innovative Solutions During Wartime 34:33 Chimen's Political Journey and Ideological Conflicts 39:34 Dayan Abramsky’s Influence and Legacy in Israel

Brought up in a village which did not have a minyan of Jews; a self-taught child genius. His life was shattered by the Russian civil war and the new anti-religious communist Soviet Union. He was hounded, arrested and eventually imprisoned in Siberia, but his faith remained untouched.  His thoughts and writings on Prayer emerge through this period of his life.     Summary This conversation delves into the life of Dayan Abramsky, a Jewish figure who faced immense challenges during the Soviet regime. It explores his arrest, the impact on his family, his resilience in the face of adversity, and the international efforts made for his release. The discussion also highlights his reflections on faith, prayer, and the significance of Eretz Yisrael in Jewish identity.   Take-aways Faith played a crucial role in survival during hardships. The Chafetz Chaim's letter was pivotal in seeking help. Rav Abramsky’s early education shaped his future leadership. The civil war in Russia had devastating effects on the Jews. Important ideas for prayers on Rosh Hashana & Yom Kippur   Chapters 00:00 The Arrest and Its Impact 03:12 Survival in  Adversity 06:02 The early years of Dayan Abramsky 08:54 Education and Influences 11:45 The Turbulent Times of War 15:09 Resistance Against Oppression 18:02 The Struggles of Jewish Life in the Soviet Union 20:53 Imprisonment and Interrogation 24:14 International Efforts for Release 27:07 Reflections on Suffering and Faith 29:55 The Journey to Freedom 33:13 The Aftermath and New Beginnings 36:06 The Connection to Eretz Yisrael

Jews paid the Crown for the privilege of getting married, divorced or converted. London ran into politics with its synagogues, Norwich became the first city for blood libels, yet the priests of Canterbury were fully supported by the Jews.    Despite these difficulties, Torah scholarship and even Kabbalah flourished in England. And that’s besides the 6,000 herrings….     Summary This conversation explores the history of Jewish communities in Medieval England, focusing on their relationships with Christian society, the roles of Jewish women, the various cities with Jewish populations, the impact of the blood libels and the contributions of notable Jewish scholars like Rabbi Elia Menachem of London.   Takeaways Women in Jewish communities had significant economic roles. Blood libel accusations led to widespread violence against Jews. Jewish marriages were heavily taxed by the crown. The Jewish community in Canterbury was notably resilient. Historical records show a complex relationship between Jews and Christians.   Chapters 02:19 The Role of Women in Medieval Jewish Society 11:42 Marriage vs Economic Dynamics in Jewish Communities 15:15 Canterbury, Oxford & London 20:27 The conversion of Christians to Judaism  34:17 The Influence of Jewish Scholars in Medieval England 38:31 Rabbi Elia: A Multifaceted Leader in Jewish Life 48:31 Crime and Community

Invited to settle by William the Conqueror, when Winchester was the capital city, the 220 year history of Jews in England is seen as a narrative of money-lending and expulsion. But the real story is far more gripping. Jews settled across the Land, becoming the wealthiest in the process. Women were advisors to the royal court and an ancient Roman gold coin ended up in Britain, along with its invaders.   Summary This conversation explores the complex history of Jewish life in medieval England, focusing on the arrival of Jews, their integration into society, the role of moneylending, and the significant figure of Licoricia of Winchester. It discusses the impact of royal decrees on Jewish autonomy, the influence of the church, and the tragic end of Licoricia, while also reflecting on the evolving roles of Jewish women during this period. Takeaways. Jews became wealthy within 60 years of arriving in England. Licoricia of Winchester was a prominent Jewish businesswoman. The church played a subtle yet powerful role in Jewish life. Licoricia's life reflects the challenges faced by Jews. The decline of Jewish prosperity began in the 13th century. Jewish women were actively involved in business. Chapters 00:00 The Historical Context of Jewish Life in England 02:48 The Roman coin that arrived from Judea in 71CE 06:01 The Role of Jewish Moneylending in English Society 18:51 Licoricia of Winchester: A Case Study 24:50 The Church's Influence on Jewish Life 28:03 The Aftermath of Licoricia's Life 40:47 Conclusion: Reflections on Jewish History in England

The Torah explicitly forbids lending money at interest, yet the Hetter Iska document seems to allow it. Is it legal? Should we all have one? Did the 17th century create a watershed moment?   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:26 The Historical Context of Money in Jewish History 08:11 The Role of the Vaad Arba Arotzos in Creating the Hetter Iska Document 11:29 Navigating Financial Transactions within the Framework of Halacha 19:27 Understanding the Document 35:04 The Prohibition of Ribis (interest bearing loans) 43:18 Different Types of Hetter iska

Rabbi Yossi Steiner spent the war years on the run - as a child - and survived through a series of miracles.   He found himself alone in a ghetto, needing to take care of his 5 year old brother. He hid in a bunker for 9 months, whilst Nazis came searching with trained dogs. He crossed borders through forests and fields and spent months pretending to be a mute child.   His story and that of the non-jewish family who saved him, must be heard...   To see a clip of the bunker that saved R' Steiner, click here - https://www.jle.org.uk/pages/podcast   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:19 Life Before the War 03:46 Imposition of Decrees and Restrictions 06:14 Escape to Hungary 09:38 Safety in Hungary and the Divide Between Hungarian Jews and Jewish Refugees 13:25 Dangers for Foreign Jews in Hungary 16:20 Desperate Attempts to Save Loved Ones 21:52 Life Under False Identities 27:03 Return to Slovakia 29:00 Escape and Disappearance 30:28 Hiding and Seeking Refuge 31:57 The Mosulak Family's Heroic Act 32:55 The Consequences of the Slovak Uprising 34:22 Nazi Threats and Close Calls 36:20 Living in Fear and Constant Danger 37:19 Jan Mosulak's Courageous Denial 43:29 Honoring the Mosulak Family 46:40 The Fear and Resilience of a Child 50:33 The Importance of Not Giving Up 52:49 Finding Meaning in Loss and Tears

1945. The war is over and Germany is in chaos. But now the church has to explain its silence. And two other groups emerge.   There are thousands of Jewish orphans scattered across Europe. At the same time there are thousands of Nazis on the run. Will justice prevail?   Chapters 00:00 The Church's Denial and Defense 04:19 Suppression of the Draft Encyclical 16:17 Treatment of Jewish Children in Convents 25:43 Collaboration with the International Red Cross 28:06 Complicity and Deficient Moral Map 30:30 Complicity of the Red Cross and the Catholic Church 38:39 The Role of the Red Cross in Aiding Nazis 46:10 The Vatican's Opposition to the Nuremberg Trials 54:39 Positive Contributions of the Red Cross and the Church

Berlin 1936 saw Germany win more Gold medals than any other country, while the world looked on. But at what price? How aware was the Church of Jewish persecution? What role did the ordinary German play in Hitler’s regime? And what motivated those who saved Jews? Chapters 00:00 The Berlin Olympics of 1936: Hitler's Showcase 05:04 Calls to Boycott or Relocate the Olympics 09:42 Why Did Ordinary Germans Participate in the Holocaust? 18:42 The Role of Obedience and Peer Pressure 23:24 The Church's Influence on Anti-Semitism 28:36 The Catholic Church's Silence and Inaction 31:27 Debating the Motivation behind the Church's Inaction 49:24 Individuals and Churches that Actively Helped and Saved Jews