Joalheiros, modistas e Klientelshik: a presença e a memória judaica em Juiz de Fora (1870 - 1950)

Abstract

This dissertation conducts a study on the history of Jewish immigration in Juiz de Fora, with a temporal focus between the 1870s and 1950s, and a spatial focus on the aforementioned municipality located in Minas Gerais. The time frame is justified because it was the one in which the migratory flow was greater, or better documented, since the research was based, above all, on documents and newspaper clippings, in addition to interviews with descendants who experienced, in some way, this context. In this sense, it sought to describe, analyze and understand the dynamics established by these immigrants, especially with regard to their assimilation into the local culture which, although cosmopolitan in its essence as a coffee and industrial hub, was conservative. To this end, research was carried out in the local press, which is available digitally on the world wide web, in addition to accessing public and private documents, such as marriage, death and birth certificates, naturalization processes, club and association cards, books from institutional records, minutes of meetings, administrative documents, civil and criminal proceedings and interviews with remaining members of the immigrants' families. It was realized, therefore, that there were some family groups of immigrants of Jewish origin in Juiz de Fora and that they actively participated in the political, economic and social life of the municipality, including helping to subsidize works and constructions promoted by the Catholic Church of city.