Pogrom Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
pogrom
[หpษษกrษm ]
Definition
historical event
A pogrom refers to a violent riot aimed at the massacre or persecution of an ethnic or religious group, particularly Jews in Eastern Europe during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These events were often characterized by mob violence, looting, and destruction of property, and they were often tacitly or overtly supported by local authorities. The term has since come to be associated with any organized and violent attack directed toward a minority group. Pogroms not only resulted in significant loss of life but also led to mass migrations as survivors fled for safety.
Synonyms
attack, bloodbath, massacre, persecution, riot.
Examples of usage
- The pogrom in Kishinev shocked the world.
- Historical accounts detail numerous pogroms across Europe.
- Survivors of the pogrom sought refuge elsewhere.
- Violence erupted in a pogrom against the local Jewish community.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word originates from the Russian language, meaning 'to wreak havoc' or 'to demolish', highlighting the destructive nature of such events.
- Pogroms were especially prevalent in Eastern Europe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly targeting Jewish communities.
- One of the most notorious pogroms occurred in Kishinev (now in Moldova) in 1903, leading to widespread international outrage.
Culture
- Pogroms have been depicted in various forms of art, literature, and film, shedding light on the struggles of minority communities.
- The trauma of pogroms is often reflected in Jewish folklore and music, symbolizing resilience and the fight for identity.
Psychology
- Psychologically, pogroms can instill deep fear and trauma in affected communities, persisting for generations.
- The concept of 'othering' plays a significant role in pogroms, where a group is dehumanized, leading to increased violence as part of an ingrained societal belief.
Modern Context
- While historically associated with Jewish communities, the term can describe similar acts of violence against any marginalized group today.
- Modern-day incidents in various countries illustrate that the patterns of intolerance can still provoke violent outbreaks against communities.
International Law
- Pogroms have prompted discussions about human rights and the need for protective measures for vulnerable populations.
- International law has evolved to condemn such acts of violence, attempting to prevent future occurrences through global awareness and education.
Origin of 'pogrom'
The term 'pogrom' is derived from the Russian word 'ะฟะพะณัะพะผ', which means 'to destroy, to demolish'. The use of the word first became common during the anti-Jewish riots in the Russian Empire in the late 19th century, where these violent attacks on Jewish communities resulted in significant fatalities and displacements. Pogroms were often fueled by political and social unrest, scapegoating of Jews for various social and economic problems, and were sometimes provoked or allowed by government authorities. The phenomenon was not limited to Russia, as similar incidents have occurred in many parts of Europe and beyond. The historical context of the word highlights ongoing issues of persecution and minority rights, as reflected in its use today.