History for the Curious - The Jewish History Podcast

JLE
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History for the Curious - The Jewish History Podcast

History for the Curious The most talked-about Jewish History Podcast History for the Curious features the dynamic historian and famous tour guide & lecturer: Rabbi Aubrey Hersh, live from the JLE in London, hosted by myself: Mena Reisner Join us as we cross continents, sail through the centuries, tracing lives, uncovering events and following epic journeys, to reveal the untold stories, the scandals, and the mysteries, that have impacted our history and shaped us into who we are today. Encounter leaders, visionaries, spies, heroes & traitors and unpack 2,000 years of Jewish heritage. Go back to the story of Jews in the Temple of Jerusalem. Confront the dilemmas of the Holocaust. Visit Paris, Prague, Vilna, London, Venice, New York & the Cairo Geniza. Meet The Russian Czar, Ramchal, Maharal, Maimonides, Churchill, Shabbetai Zvi and the Hapsburgs.

  1. DEC 18

    #146 - 19th Century Vienna - Friends or Enemies?

    In the 1800s Vienna was one of the world's major cities, yet does not seem to have produced religious leadership? It nevertheless underwent a metamorphosis, which left it the victim of strong prejudice. Why did it experience such phenomenal growth in numbers and how - in just 4 decades - did Vienna become the centre of Jewish culture and science. What role did Rabbi Shmuel Yosef Bloch play?   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jewish History Podcast 02:51 The Importance of Understanding Jewish History 06:12 Effie's Insights on Rabbi Hirsch's Work 07:05 Introduction to the Jews of Vienna 08:33 Vienna's Jewish History and Community Dynamics 10:29 Legal Status and Assimilation of Jews in Vienna 13:52 The Rise of Jewish Influence in Vienna 18:10 Anti-Semitism and Jewish Integration in Society 21:06 The Complex Relationship Between Jews and Non-Jews 24:00 Political Anti-Semitism and Its Consequences 26:25 Internal Anti-Semitism and Community Dynamics 28:45 The Crisis of Assimilation and Political Zionism 30:13 Jewish Identity in Late 19th Century Vienna 32:35 Religious Reform and Resistance in Vienna 36:22 The Showdown of Reform and Orthodox Judaism 43:30 Rabbi Yosef Schmuel Bloch: A Voice Against Anti-Semitism 54:50 Vienna's Jewish Community: A Historical Overview

    57 min

  2. DEC 5

    #145 - Chanukah, the West & the ICC Judgement

    Unlike militant Islam, our enemies in the West don't want the Jews wiped out. But what they are aiming for is far more sinister. It is a battle between Sheker and Emess, that goes back to Biblical times and encompasses Politics, Art & Science. The quest for peace may seem elusive, but in certain ways, we hold the keys to changing the narrative.   Summary This conversation delves into the complexities of Jewish identity, the historical context of anti-Semitism, and the current political landscape in the West, surrounding Israel and the ICC. It explores the philosophical underpinnings of truth, the influence of Greek thought on Jewish tradition, and the dangers of assimilation. The podcast looks at the Soviet Union, the Church, Blood Libels and the recent US elections.   Chapters 00:00 The ICC and Its Jurisdiction Over Israel 02:52 Historical Context of Jewish Enmity 06:14 The Nature of Modern Anti-Semitism 09:06 The Role of Truth and Falsehood 11:59 The Intersection of Science and Religion 14:52 The Influence of Greek Philosophy 18:12 The Political Landscape and Jewish Identity 21:09 The Dangers of Assimilation 24:03 The ICC's Bias Against Israel 26:51 The Call to Action for the Jewish Community 29:45 The Importance of Truth in Jewish Life

    50 min

  3. NOV 27

    #144 - The Rothschilds III - Five Brothers

    The ghetto walls were slowly coming down, but Mayer Anschel and Gutele refused to leave the Judengasse.   Unusual opportunities arose for the Rothschilds when Napoleon opened a port for smuggling gold, although all was not plain sailing. The result was an international network based on Mayer Amschel's instruction, where unity and the Jewish Nation reigned supreme.   Along the way,Taxis & Thurn, the Duke of Wellington & Hersh Liebman all formed part of the enduring and memorable narrative. But the question of the origins of his wealth, still remains unanswered....   https://koshertravelers.com/pesach-2025-elysium-resort-spa-hotel/   Chapters 00:00 The Rothschilds and European Finance 02:22 Emancipation and the Ghetto Experience 04:11 Tax Investigations and Business Operations 06:32 Smuggling and Trade Challenges 10:46 The Rise of Nathan Rothschild 12:40 The Smuggling Operations and Economic Impact 19:14 Nathan Rothschild: The Napoleon of Finance 23:03 Legacy of Mayer Amschel Rothschild 27:21 Legacy of Influence: The Rothschild Family's Values 30:09 Unity and Success: The Rothschild Brothers' Commitment 32:57 The Early Years: Rothschild's Business Practices and Challenges 39:00 Theft and Betrayal: A Rothschild Scandal Uncovered 42:45 Communication Innovations: The Rothschilds' Use of Pigeons and Telegraphs 46:57 The Portrait of Guttler Rothschild: A Family Legacy 51:14 Mysteries of Wealth: The Rothschilds and Their Historical Context

    54 min

  4. NOV 19

    #143 - The Rothschilds II - Mayer Amschel: Founder of a Dynasty

    Denmark’s bankruptcy gave Rothschild the opportunity he had been pursuing for 30 years, leaving a wake of furious Christian bankers behind him. A branch opens in London and the founder now changes to Family Rothschild, but Judaism remains uppermost. Napoleon’s invasion forces the Rothschilds underground and secrecy, diplomacy and speed become the bywords of the dynasty.    Trip Details: Join us in exploring Jewish history across Austria, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia with Rabbis Aubrey Hersh and Akiva Tatz.Limited spots available—contact Giana at giana.elav@gmail.com for details.   Chapters 00:00 The Rise of the Rothschild Dynasty 02:50 The Rothschild Family Structure and Dynamics 08:56 Challenges and Triumphs in the Ghetto 11:47 The Impact of War on Rothschild's Wealth 15:07 The Role of Secrecy in Rothschild's Success 18:00 The Legacy of Charity and Community 20:54 Political Maneuvering and Emancipation 24:11 The Rothschilds and the Napoleonic Wars 26:59 The Transformation into International Bankers 33:04 The Enduring Legacy of the Rothschild Family

    48 min

  5. NOV 12

    #142 - The Rothschilds I - Mayer Amschel: Unusual Origins

    The very name conjures up images of immense wealth, of banks and private government deals. It is accompanied by numerous conspiracy theories and unlikely legends. But the beginnings of the dynasty occurred in the overcrowded and isolated confines of the uninhabitable ghetto of Frankfurt. He rose to become the wealthiest Jew in Germany whilst remaining a Jew enclosed in a ghetto. It is a story that has never really been told. One that saw fortunes being lost and gained and that occured in the most unlikely of historical circumstances.   Summary This conversation explores the life and legacy of Mayer Amschel Rothschild, detailing his unlikely rise to wealth as a Jew in 18th century Frankfurt. It delves into the socio-economic conditions of the time, the anti-Semitic environment, and the significant events that shaped his fortune, including the French Revolution. The discussion highlights Rothschild's early ventures, his connections with influential figures, and the business landscape of Frankfurt, ultimately leading to the establishment of the Rothschild banking dynasty.   Takeaways The Rothschild name has become synonymous with immense wealth, yet Rothschild's rise to wealth could not have been foreseen . Life in the Judengasse was harsh and restrictive for Jews for many centuries. Frankfurt was a significant business hub in the 18th century. Rothschild's early ventures included trading coins and banking. His connections with royalty were crucial to his success. The French Revolution created opportunities for Rothschild. Within a decade afterwards, Rothschild and his sons became millionaires.     Chapters 04:20 Conspiracy theories 07:57 Life in Frankfurt's Judengasse 15:09 The Business Landscape of 18th Century Frankfurt 26:09 Rothschild's Early Ventures and Connections 29:30 Crown Prince William of Cassel-Hesse 37:58 The Impact of the French Revolution

    50 min

  6. NOV 2

    #141 - Why History?

    The question behind all our podcasts? What can we learn? How does it change us. Our matched funds campaign is now live. If you enjoy History for the Curious, Please sponsor our continued podcasts: www.charityextra.com/jle/podcast   The link will be live all of this week

    1 min

  7. OCT 29

    #140 - The Greatest Fundraisers in History

    During the 20th century, a number of individuals devoted their lives to helping the Jewish People; determined, courageous and innovative. Their fundraising efforts had an enormous impact on the Jewish world. Their stories need to be heard.    Charity also raises Halachic dilemmas for donors and recipients alike. And then there is a unique opportunity to introduce a History for the Curious podcast !   Join our fundraiser this week, to help double our audience. Link goes live on Motze Shabbos 2nd November -  www.charityextra.com/jle/podcast     Summary This conversation explores significant moments in Jewish fundraising history: people, events and campaigns. It emphasizes the importance of charity and community support and delves into the historical context of Jewish fundraising efforts, particularly in the aftermath of World War II. It highlights the transformative power of community support, the guilt felt by American Jewry for not doing enough during the war, and the significant contributions made by individuals like Henry Morgenthau. The discussion also touches on the evolution of fundraising methods, including the rise of online platforms that democratize giving. Halakhic perspectives on fundraising practices are also explored, such as revealing names of donors and repayments for loans   Takeaways WWI brought various Jewish organisations together to help Jews internationally. Rabbi Elya Chaim Meisels played a crucial role in building Lodz's infrastructure and exemplified selflessness. The Ponovezher Rov's efforts saved many lives during the war. True fundraising requires a deep understanding of the cause. Building a future is more important than memorializing the past. The impact of individual donors can transform communities. Historic fundraising campaigns have shaped the Jewish community's response to crises. The ongoing struggle for Jewish survival is echoed in historical fundraising efforts. Halakhic issues play a crucial role in the ethics of fundraising. Online fundraising has transformed how charities engage with donors.    Chapters 03:03 Fundraising History: A Chilly Evening in Chicago 10:36 Rabbi Elya Chaim Meisels: His foresight and his support of scholars, trade unionists and cholera victims 16:53 The Ponovezher Rov: Resilience and Courage After the Holocaust 29:33 Historic Fundraising Campaigns Post-WWII 33:25 Guilt and Responsibility in Fundraising 39:13 The Fight for a Jewish State and Golda Meir’s financial campaign 43:57 Halakhic Fundraising Dilemmas 51:01 The Evolution of Online Fundraising 54:45  Win the chance to introduce a History for the Curious Podcast

    57 min

  8. OCT 14

    #139 - Dayan Yechezkel Abramsky II – Clashes, Victories & Losses

    His arrival to England was accompanied both by miracles and threats. Soon thereafter he was elected as the Av Beis Din in London, where he faced many battles: the non-religious lay leadership, the dangers of the Blitz during WWII and a family that was becoming fragmented. His tenacity and resilience saw him succeed and his influence on British Jewry extends to the present day. Moving to Eretz Yisrael in 1951 brought new challenges and new opportunities for Torah. However his son Chimen was an enigma to the end; a genius who fought for the Jews but lost his Judaism.     Summary This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Dayan Abramsky, a prominent Jewish leader in London during the mid 20th century. It explores his resilience through adversity, his commitment to maintaining kosher standards, and his significant role in the Jewish community during World War II.  The discussion highlights almost miraculous escapes and the personal sacrifices made by him and his family. This conversation delves into the life and legacy, exploring the complexities of his family dynamics, particularly the ideological conflicts faced by his son Chimen, who became a communist despite his father's religious background. Anecdotes and reflections on his character and teachings provide a rich context for understanding his contributions to Jewish life and thought.   Takeaways Dayan Abramsky was instrumental in raising the standards of Judaism in England. Courtroom battles highlighted the importance of truth in Jewish law. Abramsky’s family faced immense struggles during the Soviet era. Innovative solutions were necessary to address wartime challenges. Chimen's political journey reflects a complex relationship with his father's legacy. influence on British Jewry is still felt today. The contradictions in Chimen's life highlight the complexities of identity.   Chapters 00:00 The Miraculous Stories of Survival 06:35 Challenges of Jewish Leadership in London 10:51 The Fight for Kosher Standards 15:29 Courtroom Battles and Upholding Truth 17:56 Family Struggles and Personal Sacrifices 20:19 Community Engagement and Responsibilities 23:09 Innovative Solutions During Wartime 34:33 Chimen's Political Journey and Ideological Conflicts 39:34 Dayan Abramsky’s Influence and Legacy in Israel

    55 min
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4.9
out of 5
152 Ratings

About

History for the Curious The most talked-about Jewish History Podcast History for the Curious features the dynamic historian and famous tour guide & lecturer: Rabbi Aubrey Hersh, live from the JLE in London, hosted by myself: Mena Reisner Join us as we cross continents, sail through the centuries, tracing lives, uncovering events and following epic journeys, to reveal the untold stories, the scandals, and the mysteries, that have impacted our history and shaped us into who we are today. Encounter leaders, visionaries, spies, heroes & traitors and unpack 2,000 years of Jewish heritage. Go back to the story of Jews in the Temple of Jerusalem. Confront the dilemmas of the Holocaust. Visit Paris, Prague, Vilna, London, Venice, New York & the Cairo Geniza. Meet The Russian Czar, Ramchal, Maharal, Maimonides, Churchill, Shabbetai Zvi and the Hapsburgs.

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