A Study of Philanthropy in the Harbin Jewish Community

Abstract

The Harbin Jews, mainly Ashkenazi from Russia, were closely related to changes in the international situation in the late 19^th century. Major historical events, such as the construction of the Chinese Eastern Railway, brought about 25,000 Jews to Harbin, the hub of the railway, forming the Harbin Jewish community as the largest Jewish settlement in the Far East. The living conditions of Jews in Russia and Harbin, as well as special circumstances such as wars and disasters, are the main causes for the Harbin Jews to carry out philanthropy. They accordingly established the Jewish Poor Relief Society. The generous donations of famous philanthropists such as Skidelsky, laid the foundation for the sustainable development of the Harbin Jewish community.