Immigration and Jewish history

Jewish history and immigration are intertwined through centuries of movement driven by persecution, economic opportunity, and refuge. Jews faced expulsions, discrimination, and violence in various regions, prompting waves of migration—especially to Europe, North America, and Israel. Major migrations include fleeing medieval Europe, escaping from Eastern European pogroms, and emigrating post-World War II to rebuild lives. These migrations shaped Jewish cultural, religious, and social identities worldwide. Immigration has been both a response to adversity and a way to sustain Jewish communities, influencing global history and fostering rich, diverse cultural contributions.