Commerce and Community: Philadelphia's Early Jewish Settlers, 1736–76

Philadelphia's earliest Jewish settlers created a web of connections that was reinforced by necessity, trust, and obligation. In the absence of any Jewish institution, they collaborated in observing their religion and relied on one another as they established themselves in business. Interdependence in these dual realms complicated their relationships. Successful economic collaborations often led to longstanding partnerships, and colleagues often merged their families. However, bad luck, dishonesty, and imprudence disrupted relationships and impeded the communal cohesion. Communal and religious needs and economic necessities sometimes facilitated and sometimes complicated the other.