“All Jews are rich” – such historically grown prejudices still contort our perception of Jewish life and work in the present day.

Jewish trade activities mainly involve bartering up until the 13th century, when the monetary economy becomes established. Interest-based transactions are forbidden for Christians but allowed for Jews. Jews, however, are not permitted to own land, and they are also banned from a number of craft professions. Jews mainly earn a living by working in trade and finance. In rural areas, trading in cattle, tobacco and wine, working as butchers and selling kosher foods are important sources of income.

Industrialisation offers new opportunities: Jewish entrepreneurs set up factories and many opt for freelance professions as lawyers, doctors or in the fields of press, theatre, film and publishing.