Zimbabwe and Zambian Jewish Community histories
Zimbabwe and Zambia have small Jewish communities that have a long history in those countries. The first Jewish immigrants arrived in Zimbabwe and Zambia, then known as Southern and Northern Rhodesia, in the late 19th century, attracted by economic opportunities and a relatively peaceful and stable political climate. The community initially consisted mostly of Eastern European Ashkenazi Jews, but over time it has also included Sephardic Jews (in Zimbabwe) and Jews of other backgrounds.
Throughout the 20th century, the Jewish community in Zimbabwe and Zambia played a prominent role in the country’s economic and cultural life. Many Jews were involved in trade, agriculture, and other businesses, and they also made important contributions to education, healthcare, and other areas of public service. The communities maintained a number of synagogues and other communal institutions, and were actively involved in charitable work, both within Zimbabwe, Zambia and internationally.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the Jewish communities in Zimbabwe and Zambia faced a number of challenges, including economic stagnation, political instability, and increasing antisemitism, particularly in Zimbabwe. Despite these challenges, the community has remained committed to preserving its rich cultural heritage and contributing to the development of Zimbabwe and Zambia. Today, the Jewish communities are very small but important part of the country’s diverse cultural tapestries.
For links to other historical documents and articles see below or via the main menu above.
This section will evolve over time but gives an idea of the other historical resources we plan to post. If you have any material in textual format, photos or any other digital medium please let us know. Write email to the editor
There have been several books written on the history of the communities of which some of the most prominent are “Majuta” by Dr Barry A Kosmin published in (1980 – Mambo Press), The Goldbergs of Leigh Ranch by W E Arnold (1980 – Books of Zimbabwe), The Moon can Wait – Biography of Hon A E Abrahamson (2004 – Penguin) and others. Reference will be made separately to these books. Please send us information on any other books you are aware of.
In addition you can find a link to a 275-page manuscript of a previously unpublished manuscript by Eric Rosenthal called “Rhodesian Jewry and its Story”. The exact date of its writing is unclear but was probably the early 1960s. A brief background to the work is given by the Hon A E Abrahamson.
Check out the Shuls section of the website for further historical information on the communities which were published in various anniversary publications.
Go to the menu bar above for pages relating to the Zambia Jewish Community – the books published and for some details and images recording its history.
Remember to use the search bar at the top of his page to find items that interest you.
The following summary generated by Google Notebook AI provides a synopsis of the books by Rosenthal and Kosmin and the main points of their important books:
Briefing Doc: Jewish Community in Rhodesia (Zimbabwe)
This briefing doc reviews the main themes and important details from excerpts of “Majuta: A History of the Jewish Community of Zimbabwe” by B.A. Kosmin and “Rhodesian Jewry and its Story” by Eric Rosenthal.
Main Themes:
- Jewish Pioneers and the Founding of Rhodesia: Both sources detail the significant role Jewish individuals played in the early exploration, development, and administration of Rhodesia, particularly under Cecil Rhodes and the British South Africa Company.
- Economic Activities and Contributions: The sources highlight the diverse economic roles of Jewish settlers, including trading, mining, storekeeping, and hotel management. Their contributions to the development of various industries are emphasized.
- Antisemitism and Discrimination: While the early years under Rhodes saw relatively little overt antisemitism, both sources document instances of prejudice and discrimination against Jewish settlers, particularly concerning land ownership and trading licenses. The influence of antisemitic policies in South Africa on Rhodesia is also explored.
- Impact of World Events: The sources illustrate how global events like the World Wars and the rise of Nazism impacted the Jewish community in Rhodesia, from the influx of refugees to debates about “alien” rights and contributions during wartime.
- Zionism and Relationship with Israel: The evolving relationship between Rhodesian Jewry and the Zionist movement is traced, alongside the complex attitudes towards Israel during its formative years and later.
Important Ideas & Facts:
Pioneering Days:
- Key Figures:Alfred Beit: Financier and close confidante of Rhodes, instrumental in establishing the De Beers diamond monopoly and funding early Rhodesian ventures.
- “Matabele” Thompson: Instrumental in securing the initial Rudd Concession from Lobengula, opening the door to Rhodesian settlement.
- Moss Cohen: Early trader who secured a significant mining concession from Lobengula, later selling half to Rhodes.
- Motivations: Jewish settlers were drawn by opportunities for economic advancement and, in many cases, fleeing persecution in Europe. The promise of “equal rights for all civilized men” under Rhodes’s vision held particular appeal.
- Challenges: Early Jewish settlers faced harsh conditions, disease, and the constant threat of conflict with the indigenous population.
Under Chartered Company Rule:
- Economic Roles: Jews were prominent in trading, particularly with the indigenous population, and played a vital role in supplying the burgeoning mining communities. Many transitioned into storekeeping and hotel management.
- Land Ownership: Despite their contributions, Jewish settlers faced discrimination in acquiring farmland, often relegated to less desirable areas or denied altogether. This limited their economic opportunities and social mobility.
- Antisemitism: As the early pioneering spirit faded, anti-Semitic attitudes increased, particularly regarding Jewish traders who were accused of exploiting the indigenous population.
Responsible Government & Interwar Years:
- Political Participation: Max Danziger emerged as a prominent figure, becoming the first Jew to hold a cabinet position in Rhodesia. He advocated for pragmatic approaches to racial issues and economic development.
- Impact of South African Policies: The rise of the Afrikaner Nationalist Party and their antisemitic policies in South Africa created anxieties for Rhodesian Jewry, particularly regarding immigration quotas and the potential for closer ties between the two countries.
Refugees and Fascists:
- Refugee Crisis: The sources document the Rhodesian government’s ambivalent response to the influx of Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi persecution. While some were admitted, many were turned away due to economic concerns and prevailing prejudices.
- World War II: The war years saw debates about the loyalty and contributions of “aliens” within Rhodesia, highlighting existing tensions and prejudices. The establishment of the Internment Camp Corps, where some Rhodesians of “enemy alien” origin were forced to serve, exemplifies these complexities.
The Declining Years & UDI:
- Community Life: Despite challenges, the Jewish community flourished, establishing synagogues, schools, and social organizations. The sources provide glimpses into their vibrant communal life and contributions to Rhodesian society.
- Zionism and Israel: The community actively supported the Zionist movement, with organizations like the Jewish National Fund and WIZO playing significant roles. However, attitudes towards Israel were complex, reflecting broader political realities and strategic interests in the region.
- Intermarriage and Identity: The issue of intermarriage and its impact on Jewish continuity is discussed, revealing concerns about assimilation and the importance of maintaining Jewish identity within a predominantly Christian society.
Quotes:
- Rhodes on Jewish Settlers: “My country is all right if the Jews come.” (Majuta) This quote reflects the early welcoming attitude towards Jewish settlers, seen as valuable contributors to Rhodes’s vision.
- Major Leonard on Jewish Character: “I for one, have always admired the Chosen People…. They are an element that some day in the not very distant future, will have to be taken into serious consideration and consulted.” (Majuta) This quote exemplifies the complex Victorian view of Jews, acknowledging their potential while also harboring a degree of prejudice.
- B.S.A. Company Official on Jewish Traders: “The foreigners are mostly low class Jews, and live in such a despicable manner that it is impossible for a respectable white man to obtain a living in opposition to them.” (Majuta) This quote reveals the increasing anti-Semitism directed towards Jewish traders, accusing them of unfair business practices and lowering the “tone” of white society.
- “Sunday News” on “Alien” Contributions: “Many (Rhodesians) are wondering if (the Mayor) is unaware that the sons of men who must be classified as Aliens are fighting in the Rhodesian Forces and that men of Greek, Danish or Jewish parentage or birth…are in the ranks…” (Rhodesian Jewry) This quote highlights the hypocrisy of labeling individuals as “aliens” while their sons fight for Rhodesia, underscoring the contributions of immigrants during wartime.
Conclusion:
These sources offer a nuanced portrait of the Jewish experience in Rhodesia, highlighting their significant contributions to the nation’s founding and development while also acknowledging the challenges they faced due to prejudice and discrimination. Understanding this complex history is crucial for comprehending the evolution of Zimbabwean society and its diverse communities.
This 10 mins audio clip below was created by Google Notebook AI and is sourced from the books by Rosenthal and Kosmin. The content and interpretation are entirely done by AI and this website is not responsible in any for its content. It is merely provided here as an experiment in converting large textual documents to more accessible audio files. It covers the books on Rhodesian/Zimbabwe Jewish Communities in the form of a podcast.0
