Jewish Life in Warsaw Before the Holocaust

Submitted by Leora Schaefer

Our group was treated to a guided tour of the Museum of the History of Polish Jews’ temporary exhibit which looks at the history of Jews in Warsaw.  As we began our time in the gallery it became clear to all of us participating, that our time with our guide, Eva Malkowska-Bieniek (Curator at the Museum) would be one that would open our eyes to the many stereotypes that we held of Jewish life in Warsaw.  

The following photographs and facts highlight some information that was new for me, as well as the other participants that I spoke with after the session.  As participants in the session this learning helped us confront our own assumptions and stereotypes.  

• There has been a Jewish presence in Warsaw since the 17^th century, when Jews were not permitted to live in the city centre, but lived on private properties, around the periphery. 

• The Jewish population in Warsaw lived in many different neighborhoods.  Each neighborhood had a significant Jewish presence, and each had a very different character.  Some were inhabited by more traditional Jews, another contained all of the markets, while another was where more of the assimilated Jews resided. 

 

Each colored section on the map represents a different Jewish neighborhood in Warsaw with its own distinctive character.

• The Jews who founded the Great Synagogue in 1878, were interested in demonstrating that they are able to integrate into Polish society while still maintaining their Jewish identify.     Eva shared with us that many in the photo below would likely have become baptized or baptized their children to increase opportunities for business and integration into society.

 

Drawing of the first services at the Great Syangogue.  Rosh Hashana 1878.

• The neighborhood in which the Great Synagogue stood was one in which many assimilated Jews lived.  The Jews who founded the Great Synagogue in 1878, were interested in demonstrating that they are able to integrate into Polish society while still maintaining their Jewish indentify.     Eva shared with us that many in the photo below would likely have become baptized or baptized their children to increase opportunities for business and integration into society. 

•  The Jewish influence on Poland can be seem in many ways, including many Polish words that have their origin in Yiddish words.

Bocher – young Jewish boy

Tsimis – Sweet carrot dish

Mish mash – a mix up 

Polish words that have their origin in Yiddish

Finally as we concluded our tour of the exhibit, Eva shared with us that in her opinion Jews were responsible for almost all of the cultural contributions in the 20’s, and early 30’s.  Jews and non Jews were equally influenced by the music, literature and art that was created by Jews during these years. 

Do you hold any stereotypes or assumptions about Jewish life in Warsaw prior to the Holocaust? What new insights might you take away from these photographs and facts?