Anti-Semitism general notes

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Jews first came to England/London from Rouen during William I's reign. Tolerated as they were necessary in credit and finance; most sophisticated financiers of the time

Their contribution to royal taxes is an indication of their relative size and wealth - it is impossible to establish an exact size for the Jewish population but is estimated to be low, probable less than 5000 at its max in 1200

Money lending was the Jews primary economic activity as they were debarred from other occupations. They had plenty of customers from every social class, from the King down - ranged through many different socio-economic groups) (Ready supply of cash was accessible to all).

The Kings used Jewish moneylenders to supplement/enhance revenues to increase consumption.

Particular cases of money lending is recorded to the higher classes such as Richard fitzGilbert, and even the highest ranks of the aristocracy; Thomas Becket

Some specific Jewish money lenders: Aaron, son of Abraham, Aaron of Lincoln (most famous), Isaac of Norwich

Money lenders profited through extortionate interest rates at 22%,44% and 66% (one/two/three pence per week per pound)

After Aaron of Lincoln's death in 1186, his sons didn't inherit their fathers business - instead the debt fell into the King's hands - debtors still had to repay, but to the King instead of Aaron. The business generated by the acquisition of Aaron's loans was so enormous a separate exchequer, the 'Exchequer of Aaron' had to be created. £15000 was made from Aaron's estate, equalling 3/4 of the royal annual income. Outstanding debts amounted to £18 000 by over 400 debtors

Jews were viewed as 'outcasts' to Christians, thus they required special protection and security, which was offered by the King.

The Jews were essentially the King's property, and he could fleece them when he deemed it necessary. In return the Jews could reside in the King's lands and travel where they would have secure possession of their land and fiefs - However, these conditions meant the Jews were the Kings milch-cow, who could be tallaged at will

Impositions from the King on the Jews could be heavy; surrendering 1/4 of their movable property. John charged 4000 marks for the charter to confirm their rights and privileges.

Exchequer of the Jews established 1194 (in response to the York Pogrom)- All loans that Jews made, and the gage on which they were secured, were to be registered. Documents were duplicated, one copy with Jewish moneylender and one in an official chest.

Resentment towards the Jews grew due to their relations with Angevin Kings.

William de Montibus describes: 'The Jews are the sponges of Kings' 'bloodsuckers of Christian purses'

In 1215 the Fourth Lateran Council ruled that Jews (and Muslims) 'shall be publicly distinguished by their dress' - visible discrimination aimed to prevent unwitting (unknowing) sexual contact between members of different faiths. In 1218 the regency council ordered this to be enforced, wearing badges

However, records of 1221 show payments for permission to leave the Jewish badge - such rules could be circumvented for a price

Blood Libel - accusation of ritual murder raised against the Jews. 1144 - murder of William of Norwich, fabricated by the Norwich monk, Thomas of Monmouth. Jews tortured, killed him and then dumped the body in a nearby wood. Part of an international Jewish conspiracy: they would never obtain freedom without the shedding of human blood, thus they must sacrifice a Christian in some part of the world. Mockery of Christ's passion. Church played a large part in spreading the cult of the martyr 'St William of Norwhich'

Similar incidents occurred later, such as Gloucester 1168 the incident at Bristol of Adam 1183, , and the murder of Little Saint Hugh of Lincoln 1255

Expulsion of the Jews was a desire by many, particularly those who were in debt to the money lenders. However, this was not permitted by Henry II. Instead, people committed simple physical violence, despite being frowned upon by the ecclesiastical policy

Attacks on Jews took place the day of Richard's coronation

Large scale pogroms began with the crusading movement - particularly the Third Crusade in which England was actively involved

York Pogrom of 1190 - Savage attack led by a group of nobles deeply burdened by debts to the Jews. They began the assault by forcing their way into the house of the recently deceased money lender Benedict, killing his widow and children. Many took refuge in the royal castle (Clifford's tower) - those outside were given the ultimatum of baptism or death. The royal castellan, Richard Malebisse, who was not allowed re-entry to the tower sought the help of the sheriff of Yorkshire, John Marshall, who arrived with a band of knights, and ordered an attack on the castle. Many Jews chose self-martyrdom, slitting the necks of themselves and families, setting fire to the castle. Some chose baptism, but were killed as soon as they descended from the castle. After the last jew was killed, Christian debtors destroyed any evidence of their debts to the jews by burning jewish bonds in York Minster

The sheriff and castellan were dismissed, and the others suffered confiscation, fines and imprisonment

As the number of Jewish settlements increased along with their wealth and influence, so did resentment towards them

Debts were secured by pledges of land, or by reputable third parties who were prepared to act as guarantors

Aaron of Lincoln: most of his debts were of small amount to humble individuals. Most of his money was lent as large sums to high-status men (knights and barons) and religious houses - 'the net of indebtness was wide a deep'

Angevin Kings purely used the Jews to extract money - 'The King's outrage when Jews were injured was not humanitarianism but fury that his assets had been damaged and his rights infringed'

Assize of arms 1181 - ensured every Englishman possessed adequate weapons. Jews were excluded from this, sold or given away - left Jews helpless: can't defend themselves

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