Language:
English
Year of publication:
1987
Titel der Quelle:
Journal of European Economic History
Angaben zur Quelle:
16,2 (1987) 245-275
Keywords:
Jews Economic conditions
;
Jews Economic conditions
Abstract:
From the 15th century to the end of the 18th, the Jews played an increasingly dominant role in domestic commerce and international trade. Their activities were characterized by small quantities and rapid turnover (and were dependent on Gentile credit), whereas the greatest merchants were Germans, Scots, and other non-Poles. Discusses privileges granted to Jews by monarchs and local rulers, and restrictions imposed upon them, particularly by the municipalities, in order to eliminate or reduce Jewish competition. Describes early restrictions on Jewish trade and residence, which were generally abandoned during the 17th century, although animosity between Jewish and Christian artisans intensified due to competition and Jewish merchants' control of raw materials. Discusses policies and regulations of Jewish local governing bodies (qahals) which were often held responsible for the debts of defaulting Jews. This period ended with the partition of Poland and appearance of a Polish Catholic bourgeoisie.
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