Historical Sketch of the Jews, since the Destruction of Jerusalem

This historical sketch of the Jews begins at a time when Jerusalem was in ruins during the time of the European exile and the school of Scribes had taken the place of the temple. When the Roman Emperor, Constantine, converted to Christianity and the entire empire became a Christian state, the Jews began to experience a period of moral and political degradation. The book discusses the fate of the Jews as they fled to various countries, such as Germany, France, Spain, Africa, and the Netherlands. In addition, it covers famous Jewish literaries such as Menahem ben Saruk, the author of a biblical dictionary; Jehudah Ibn Chajug, the chief of Hebrew grammarians; and Ibu Gabirol, philosopher, grammarian, and commentator. The author also describes how the Reformation was a better era for the Jews. Reformers were more tolerant of them, and the printing press had allowed the Jews to publish beautiful copies of the Hebrew Bible and the Talmud, which brought their teachings into prominence. Finally, the book covers how the Jews’ equality was declared in 1847. Dean Milman said, “The destinies of this wonderful people, as of all mankind, are in the hands of the All-wise Ruler of the Universe. His decrees will be accomplished, his truth, his goodness, and his wisdom vindicated.”