Eastern European Jewry

Eastern European Jewry refers to Jewish communities that historically lived in countries such as Poland, Ukraine, Belarus, Romania, and Hungary. These communities developed rich religious, cultural, and social traditions, often centered around shtetls—small towns with vibrant Jewish life. They faced periods of prosperity, as well as persecution, especially under the policies of the Russian Empire, Nazi regime, and Soviet authorities. In the 20th century, most Eastern European Jews emigrated due to war, discrimination, and genocide, notably the Holocaust, which devastated these populations. Today, the legacy of Eastern European Jewry influences Jewish culture worldwide, especially through Yiddish language, religious practices, and cultural traditions.