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The
Jews of Thessalonica March Through Time:
The
center of each community is the synagogue, in fact,
it is not only a religious and administrative center,
but also an indication of the tendency of each group
of immigrants, to preserve its individuality and autonomy
with respect to each other. However, the fluidity of
the dividing lines between the communities, as well
as the business activities that some of them undertake
from the beginning of the 16th century onwards,
and particularly in textile manufacturing, give birth
to intense political infighting.
The
quarrels manifest themselves especially at times such
as the election of the Rabbi or secular administrators,
or when some notables seek to arbitrarily impose their
own opinions.
Furthermore, the increasing business activities,
as well as the fact that the various communities have
to deal with the Turkish authorities, give rise to a
growing need for a common front.Thus,
the speed of the union of the independent synagogue
/ communities into one federation is planted. This federation
is loose in the beginning, but gradually, conditions
dictate a closer cooperation. An offspring of this unifying
trend is the joint establishment of the “Talmud Torah
a Gadol” synagogue-school, in 1520.
Sixteenth
century sources inform us that light industry, especially
textiles, is the main occupation of the majority of
the Jewish population of Thessalonica. The Jewish immigrants
imported production know-how and methods previously
unknown in the region.
From
1515 onwards, the Ottoman State covers all its requirements
in textiles for army uniforms from Thessalonica Jewish
textile manufacturers. Furthermore, it is agreed that,
using these products as a medium of exchange, the poll
tax levied on the community members, is paid in kind.
Starting in 1540, the synagogues become themselves producers,
employing, employing their poor members as salaried
workers. The profits from these business ventures are
used for the maintenance of their charitable and educational
institutions.
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