An eight-week course on the surprising story of an influential community
This course takes us on a fascinating journey that brings to life the century-long history of the Baghdadi Jewish community of Shanghai, from their roots in Baghdad to their settlement in Shanghai. We will follow their attempts to rescue the remnants of the Kaifeng Jewish community in China and focus on their interaction with Russian Jews, who found refuge in Shanghai from Nazi persecution. This is a unique opportunity to explore a dramatic and extraordinary slice of little-known Jewish history.
Dr Maisie Meyer has a PhD in International History from the London School of Economics. She is on the board of the Sino-Judaic Institute and has lectured widely on Baghdadi Jews worldwide. Her book From the Rivers of Babylon to the Whangpoo: A Century of Sephardi Jewish Life in Shanghai, is based on her extensive research and is considered the definitive history of the Baghdadi Jewish merchants who settled in Shanghai in the mid-19th century.
1pm to 3pm and 8pm to 10pm
Eight Wednesdays
28 April to 30 June
(no classes 19 May and 2 June)
Course fee: £85
