Jews, Opium and the Kimono – The story of the Jews in the Far East. (book review)

Title :-Jews, Opium and the Kimono – The story of the Jews in the Far East.

By :- Ezra Yehezkel-Shaked

Published :- Rubin Mass Ltd, Jerusalem (2003) Paperback (270 pages)

Outline;- The first antiemetic program in Russia saw some Jews migrate east to China, where they developed business in trading with the British & other colonial powers. Over the generations they  became a significant rich power in the opium trade, and later in building the rail network, sugar beat farming and medical areas. In early confrontations between the Emperor and the communists were often mediated through the Jewish medial doctors at the time. The Jews lost out to nationalism some time after the Communist take over. The violent Cultural revolution of the 60’s saw the ruminants of Jewish culture expelled.

In Japan the Jewish religion was perceived to be a long lost branch of the Buddhist – Shinto religion, and so its few members were welcome. This changed significantly with the Nationalism that included the Second World War. This war also saw Jews flee from Europe to India and other Asian countries.

A well put together book, with many fascinating side stories that reflected the history of the moment.