The Publication of 'A Popular History of the Bukharian Jews'

Published with the support of the Euro-Asian Jewish Congress, the book "A Popular History of the Bukharian Jews" explores the rich heritage of the Bukharian Jewish community, spanning more than two and a half millennia, as documented by authors Ilya Dvorkin and Markel Fazylov.

This historical account begins in the era of the Persian Empire (6th century BCE), progresses through the establishment of the Emirate of Bukhara (16th century) and the period of the Russian Empire (19th–20th centuries), and continues into the Soviet era.

The publication aims to introduce a broad audience to the distinctive history of the Bukharian Jews through an engaging and accessible narrative. Bringing lesser-known historical chapters to light, the book offers a particularly compelling chronicle of Jewish communities within the cities of Central Asia.

By incorporating personal memoirs and reflections of Bukharian Jews, the work illustrates the evolution of state policies toward this population over the centuries and the subsequent impact on their legal and economic standing.

Crucially, this historical account extends beyond archival data and statistical records. Alongside scholarly analyses and accounts by historical travelers, the book features numerous firsthand perspectives from Bukharian Jews themselves, providing invaluable insight for a comprehensive understanding of their culture and ethnography.