Expulsion of Jews from England

Expulsion of Jews from England

On July 18, 1290, King Edward I issued the Edict of Expulsion, ordering all Jews to leave the Kingdom of England. The decree affected Jewish communities across the country, requiring them to depart by November 1, 1290. The expulsion was enforced through royal officials and local authorities.

Before the expulsion, Jewish communities had lived in England since at least the Norman Conquest of 1066. They were primarily engaged in moneylending, trade, and various financial services. During the 12th and 13th centuries, Jewish communities faced increasing restrictions, taxation, and occasional violence, including attacks during periods of social unrest.

Following the 1290 expulsion, Jewish property was seized by the Crown, and Jews were forbidden to return under penalty of death. The expulsion remained in effect for over 350 years, until formal readmission occurred under Oliver Cromwell in 1656. The 1290 expulsion significantly altered the demographic and economic presence of Jews in England during the medieval period.