A Century of Ambivalence: The Jews of Russia and the Soviet Union, 1881 to the Present : Book Review

"A Century of Ambivalence" by Zvi Y. Gitelman is a captivating exploration of the intricate and ever-evolving relationship between Jews and Russians in the twentieth century. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Gitelman sheds light on the complex attitudes, perceptions, and policies that shaped this tumultuous relationship over the years.

The book immerses readers in the pre-revolutionary period, where Jews in the Russian Empire faced ongoing discrimination and restrictions. Gitelman delves into the diverse responses of the Jewish community, from assimilation to revolutionary activism, providing a crucial foundation for understanding the subsequent developments.

Gitelman then delves into the tumultuous time of the Russian Revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union. He unveils the dual nature of Soviet policies towards Jews, which simultaneously aimed to eradicate traditional Jewish practices while promoting Jewish culture and identity. This ambivalence persisted throughout the Soviet era, with Jews experiencing alternating waves of repression and cultural resurgence.

The author also delves into the impact of the Holocaust on the relations between Jews and Russians. Gitelman highlights the intricate dynamics between Soviet authorities, who initially emphasized the Soviet nature of Holocaust victims, and Jewish survivors who sought to preserve their unique identity and memory.

Lastly, Gitelman examines the period of glasnost and the eventual collapse of the Soviet Union, identifying both opportunities and challenges for Jews in the era of independence. Throughout the book, Gitelman provides a balanced and illuminating analysis, offering readers a profound understanding of the forces and complexities that have shaped the relationship between Jews and Russians over the past century.

What are readers saying?

"A Century of Ambivalence" by Zvi Y. Gitelman provides a thought-provoking and comprehensive exploration of Jewish-Russian relations throughout the 20th century. The book has garnered positive feedback from readers due to its meticulous research and rich historical context. Gitelman delves into various aspects of Jewish life in Russia, including the tension between assimilation and maintaining religious identity, the fight for equal rights, and the influence of political events on Jewish life. Readers appreciate the nuanced understanding that comes from Gitelman's thorough analysis.

Gitelman's writing style is accessible and engaging, making it easy for both academic and general readers to follow the historical narrative. The author presents the information in a clear and concise manner, which readers find suitable for their level of interest in the topic. The book's organization and coherence, with each chapter focusing on a specific time period or theme, is also praised.

Furthermore, Gitelman provides insightful and balanced perspectives on the significant figures and events that shaped Jewish-Russian relations. Avoiding oversimplification or bias, readers appreciate the author's approach, which allows them to form their own opinions based on presented facts and analysis. This adds depth and credibility, enabling readers to develop a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Some readers, however, find the dense historical content overwhelming at times, especially for those with limited knowledge of Russian or Jewish history. They mention that fully grasping the nuances may be challenging. Additionally, a few reviewers note that the book focuses more on the political and social aspects of Jewish-Russian relations, somewhat neglecting cultural and artistic contributions.

In conclusion, "A Century of Ambivalence" by Zvi Y. Gitelman is highly regarded for its meticulous research, accessible writing style, and balanced analysis. It offers a comprehensive exploration of Jewish-Russian relations and is recommended for readers seeking a deeper understanding of this complex subject.

CenturyofAmbivalence BookRecommendations LatinAmericanHistory