About this talk

This talk will take you on a fascinating journey through the history of Scottish Jewry, beginning with a snapshot of its present-day community before exploring its rich and evolving past.

We'll start in the late 17th century, when the first known Jewish visitors set foot in Scotland, and follow the story through the establishment of the earliest congregations in the early 1800s. As the 19th century progressed, these communities flourished, constantly reshaped by waves of new immigrants replacing those who moved on to destinations like the USA and Canada.

The roots of Scottish Jewry can be traced largely to Poland and Lithuania, and by mapping family origins, we can see the deep Litvak influence on the community. At its height in the 1950s and 1960s, Scotland's Jewish population was at its peak, but in the decades since it has gradually declined.

We'll explore the Jewish communities of Edinburgh and Glasgow, as well as the smaller ones that have existed in other towns. Along the way, we'll meet some remarkable individuals, including one well-known figure whose time in Scotland ended in a most unexpected and tragic way.

Join us for a compelling exploration of migration and the enduring legacy of Scotland's Jewish community.

About Michael