History of the Jews in Canada Facts for Kids

The history of the Jews in Canada tells the story of Canadian citizens who are Jewish. This includes people who follow Judaism as their religion or are part of the Jewish people.

Early Jewish Settlers in Canada (1759-1850)

Jewish people first arrived in Canada after the British took over New France in 1759. Most early Jewish settlers were merchants and traders. They played a role in Canada's early economy. The first Jewish community was established in Montreal. They built the first synagogue, called the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue, in 1768.

Growing Jewish Communities (1850-1939)

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, many Jewish people moved to Canada. They came from Eastern Europe to escape hardship and find new opportunities. This led to a big growth in Jewish communities across the country.

Jews Settle in Western Canada

Many Jewish immigrants settled in the Canadian West. They helped build new towns and farms. Some even started farming communities. These settlers faced challenges but worked hard to create new lives.

Building Strong Communities

As more Jewish people arrived, they built strong communities. They created synagogues, schools, and aid societies. These groups helped new immigrants settle in Canada. They also kept Jewish traditions alive.

Jewish Canadians During World War II (1939-1945)

During World War II, Jewish Canadians played an important part. Many Jewish men and women joined the Canadian military. They fought bravely for Canada and its allies. At home, Jewish communities supported the war effort. They also worked to help Jewish refugees from Europe.

After the War: New Beginnings (1945-1999)

After World War II, many Jewish Holocaust survivors came to Canada. They rebuilt their lives and contributed to Canadian society. The Jewish community continued to grow and become more diverse. New organizations and cultural centers were formed.

Jewish Life in Canada Today

Today, Jewish Canadians are an active part of Canada's diverse population. They live in cities and towns across the country. Jewish culture and traditions continue to thrive. Many Jewish Canadians are involved in business, arts, science, and politics.

Where Jewish Canadians Live

Most Jewish Canadians live in large cities. However, Jewish communities can be found in many parts of Canada.

Jewish Canadians Across Provinces

The largest Jewish populations are in Ontario and Quebec. Other provinces like British Columbia and Manitoba also have significant Jewish communities.

Major Cities for Jewish Canadians

Toronto and Montreal have the biggest Jewish populations. Other cities with notable Jewish communities include Vancouver, Winnipeg, and Calgary.

Jewish Culture in Canada

Jewish culture in Canada is rich and varied. It includes languages, traditions, and community life.

Languages Spoken by Jewish Canadians

While most Jewish Canadians speak English or French, some also speak traditional Jewish languages.

Hebrew Language

Hebrew is the ancient language of the Jewish people. It is used in prayers and religious studies. Many Jewish schools teach Hebrew.

Yiddish Language

Yiddish is a language that blends German, Hebrew, and Slavic words. It was once widely spoken by Ashkenazi Jews. Some Jewish Canadians still speak Yiddish today.

Jewish Newspapers and Media

Jewish communities in Canada have their own newspapers and magazines. These publications share news, culture, and community events. They help keep the community connected.

Museums and Memorials

Several museums and monuments in Canada tell the story of Jewish life. They preserve Jewish history and culture. They also remember important events, like the Holocaust.

Jewish Canadians and Their Work

Jewish Canadians contribute to many parts of Canadian society.

Education in Jewish Communities

Education is very important in Jewish culture. Many Jewish communities have their own schools. These schools teach both general subjects and Jewish studies.

Jobs and Professions

Jewish Canadians work in many different jobs. They are doctors, lawyers, teachers, artists, and business owners. They contribute to all parts of Canada's economy.

Economic Contributions

Jewish Canadians have played a role in Canada's economic growth. Many successful businesses were started by Jewish entrepreneurs. They have helped create jobs and wealth.

Images for kids

Congregation Emmanu-El Synagogue (1863) in Victoria, British Columbia, the oldest Synagogue in Canada still in use, and the oldest on the West Coast of North America
Graves in Jewish cemetery at Lipton Colony, Saskatchewan, 1916
The Jewish General Hospital opened in Montreal in 1934.
Jewish soldiers fought in the Canadian military during World War II.
Stolperstein for Rudi Terhoch in Velen-Ramsdorf, a Jewish survivor in Canada
Israeli Canadians and Jewish Canadians celebrating Yom Ha'atzmaut in Toronto.
Percentage of Jewish population in Canada, 2001.
Canada-jewish-population-2019-data
Samuel Bronfman is a member of the Bronfman Canadian Jewish family dynasty.
Benjamin Hart, businessman, militia officer, and justice of the peace, 1855
The Ward, Toronto, a predominantly Jewish neighbourhood, 1910
Jewish rag picker, Bloor Street West, Toronto, 1911
Dedication of the new Synagogue, Kirkland Lake, Ontario. Rabbi Joseph Rabin carrying the Torah, 1929
The Canadian Jewish Farm School in Georgetown, Ontario was established in 1927 and served as a training school for Polish war orphans brought to Canada after the First World War