Jewish migration in medieval England
I can explain the reasons for and impact of Jewish migrants on medieval England, as well as the experiences of Jewish settlers.
Jewish migration in medieval England
I can explain the reasons for and impact of Jewish migrants on medieval England, as well as the experiences of Jewish settlers.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Jewish people were invited to migrate to England by Norman rulers.
- Many Jewish people were encouraged to work as moneylenders, although many also worked in other professions.
- Due to increasing antisemitism, Jewish people faced greater discrimination from the late 1100s.
- Jewish people were expelled by Edward I in 1290, not to return for nearly 400 years.
Keywords
Antisemitism - hatred of or discrimination towards Jewish people
Usury - the action of lending money and charging interest, called a sin by the Pope
Common misconception
All Jewish people who migrated to England worked as moneylenders.
Not all Jewish migrants took up jobs as moneylenders; many took up other jobs and assimilated into English society.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
Loading...