Experience of Scots abroad - Jewish

Question 1

Reasons for Jewish immigration to Scotland

Answer 1

1. Many Jewish immigrants came to Scotland in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to escape persecution from nazis
2. acing limited opportunities and harsh living conditions, Jewish families saw Scotland as a place where they could rebuild their lives, practice their faith more freely, and find economic stability.
3. Scotland’s growing economy, especially in urban centres like Glasgow, presented new opportunities for Jewish immigrants. Scotland offered a more stable environment where they could start small businesses and gradually improve their circumstances, despite some challenges with discrimination.

Question 2

2 Things that the jews did in the Establishing communities

Answer 2

1. Jewish immigrants formed close-knit communities, particularly in central Glasgow. While they embraced certain aspects of Scottish life, such as learning English for business purposes,
2. Over time, Jewish immigrants and their descendants developed a distinct identity that combined elements of Jewish culture with aspects of Scottish life.

Question 3

3 Economic contributions

Answer 3

1. Many Jewish immigrants initially worked in small businesses, particularly in areas like tailoring, shopkeeping, and food trades.
2. Over time, as their businesses prospered, some Jewish families moved to more affluent suburbs. This pattern of starting small and gradually moving to wealthier areas reflected the hard work and resilience of the Jewish community.
3. Despite the limited job options, Jewish immigrants contributed to the economy by filling essential roles and providing goods and services to their communities.

Question 4

Working conditions

Answer 4

1. Many Jewish immigrants found employment in what were known as the ‘sweated trades,’ which involved jobs in small workshops with long hours, low wages, and poor working conditions.
2. Common ‘sweated trades’ for Jewish workers included tailoring, dressmaking, and boot making. Although these jobs were difficult and poorly paid, they allowed new arrivals to establish a foothold in the economy and eventually work towards better opportunities.
3. Despite the challenges of the ‘sweated trades,’ some Jewish immigrants were able to improve their economic situation over time. By saving money and building small businesses, many Jewish families advanced economically, moving from densely populated urban areas to more affluent neighbourhoods.