THE BOOK FAIR

Review:

Informative and engaging, Edward Kritzler’s book offers a wealth of information concerning the political climate in Europe during the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries which led to and promoted Jewish piracy.  The author details the history of interaction between Jews and Christians.  Accosted by anti-Semitism over the ages, Jews turned to piracy, not only for personal gain, as their Christian and Muslim counterparts, but for wealth to protect other Jews endangered in hostile lands and for revenge against nations who expelled Jews or whose doctrines cheated Jews, which afforded Jews endless possibilities.

After the expulsion from Israel by the Romans and the early centuries waned, with the rise of Christian Europe, Jewish survival in Europe became dependent upon Christian monarchs, and at times, upon Christian populations.  As Jews fell subject to the sultan or monarch under whom they resided, restricted by profession, particularly in Christendom, Jews turned to trade.

As experts in commerce, trade routes and nautical equipment, Jews flourished.   However, jealousy of their success by Christian traders, often endangered, not only the established trade businesses but also the extended viability the Jewish communities.

After the expulsion of Jews from Spain, the Spanish economy plummeted however, with Jewish immigration to the open and tolerant society of Holland, both Jews and Dutch benefitted as Holland’s economy rose.  It was also the time of exploration of the New World, one in which Jews would take an active part.

Monarchs readily employed pirates to plunder an enemy’s wealth.  Jewish pirates plundered for the Kings or Queens who offered Jews refuge with the ultimate intent of a permanent safe haven for their fellow Jews.

Edward Kritzler’s fascinating, non-fiction book, heavily detailed, offers a view of Jewish history in Christian and Muslim lands.  The author provides a detailed Chronology, Notes and Sources and Index of approximately sixty pages.  Recommended.