Jews Granted Equal Rights Under Russian Rule

In 1868, following the annexation of Central Asia by the Russian Empire, Jews were granted equal rights alongside the local Muslim population. This significant change allowed for greater social and economic integration of Jewish communities in the region. At that time, approximately 50,000 Jews resided in Samarkand and around 20,000 in Bukhara, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of these historic cities. The newfound rights enabled Jews to participate more fully in civic life, although this period of relative freedom was not to last. Following the Russian revolutions of 1917 and the subsequent establishment of the Soviet regime, Jewish religious practices faced severe restrictions. By 1935, only one synagogue remained operational in Samarkand, a stark contrast to the vibrant community that had flourished just decades earlier. Despite these challenges, underground Jewish community life persisted, showcasing the resilience of the Bukharan Jews and their commitment to maintaining their cultural and religious identity during the oppressive Soviet era.