The York Massacre of 1190
One of the most infamous acts of violence against Jews in England occurred in York in March 1190. Amid rumors of anti-Jewish riots and a general climate of hostility, a mob attacked the Jewish community in Clifford’s Tower.
Facing the threat of massacre or forced conversion, many Jews chose to commit mass suicide rather than fall into the hands of the attackers. The tragedy resulted in the death of many Jewish men, women, and children and marked one of the darkest episodes of medieval anti-Semitism in England.
Anti-Jewish Riots During the Crusades
The Crusades, launched from England in the late 12th and early 13th centuries, intensified anti-Jewish violence. Crusaders returning from the Holy Land often attacked Jewish communities, blaming them for the death of Christ and accusing them of conspiring with Muslims.
Riots broke out in London and other towns, leading to destruction of property, forced conversions, and killings.
The Statute of Jewry (1275)
King Edward I’s reign marked a turning point in the treatment of Jews. In 1275, the Statute of Jewry was enacted, imposing severe restrictions:
- Jews were prohibited from charging interest on loans.
- They were forbidden to live outside certain towns and were subjected to increased surveillance.
- The statute aimed to reduce Jewish economic influence and encourage conversion to Christianity.
This legislation drastically undermined the livelihoods of Jews, pushing many into poverty. shutdown123