The first Jews appeared in Irkutsk in the 18th century. In the Russian Empire there was the Pale of Settlement, limiting the residence of Jews mainly to the western and southern provinces. However, after a series of decrees, many members of the Jewish community began to gradually move east, in search of new opportunities or at the behest of the authorities.
The appearance of Jews in Irkutsk was associated with two main factors: exile and the need for labor. The economy of Irkutsk, located on an important trade route between Europe and Asia, required skilled artisans and traders. In the 19th century, Jewish families flocked here, looking for opportunities for business, crafts and trade.
In pre-revolutionary Irkutsk, the Jewish community gradually strengthened and developed its traditions. One of the first significant initiatives was the creation of a synagogue where local Jews could gather for prayer and religious ceremonies. In 1878, the first synagogue was built in Irkutsk, which became the cultural center of Jewish life in the city. It not only united believers, but also became a place where educational and charitable events took place.
Irkutsk Jews were mainly engaged in trade and crafts. Merchants developed enterprises selling food, textiles, and also engaged in jewelry and leather crafts. Jews in Irkutsk also actively supported charitable projects, organizing assistance to those in need, building educational institutions, and supporting orphans.
After the October Revolution of 1917, the situation of the Jewish community of Irkutsk changed. The new Soviet government pursued a policy of secularization, which made the free expression of religious life difficult. As throughout the country, Jewish organizations and religious institutions in Irkutsk came under pressure. Synagogues were closed and the activities of Jewish charitable organizations were curtailed. Instead, Jews, like other citizens, became involved in the industrial and cultural projects of the Soviet era.
Despite the prohibitions, the Jewish community of Irkutsk was able to adapt to new conditions. Many Jews, especially the younger generation, took part in the industrialization and modernization of Siberia. They worked in factories, scientific and cultural institutions, contributing to the development of the city. During this period, Jewish traditions were passed down mainly within the family circle, and religious holidays were celebrated only in private.
After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the Jewish community of Irkutsk began to gradually recover. With the disappearance of prohibitions on religious and cultural activities, the Jews of Irkutsk were able to openly revive their traditions. One of the first steps was the restoration of the Irkutsk synagogue, which, after decades of neglect, reopened its doors. Jewish cultural centers and schools appeared where children could learn Hebrew and become acquainted with Jewish history and holidays. In addition, Irkutsk Jews began to interact with international organizations supporting the cultural and religious revival of Jewish communities in Russia.
Many Jews from Irkutsk left a big mark on history. The most famous among them:
1. Mikhail Leontyevich Mil (1909 -19070) - famous helicopter designer, was born in Irkutsk. He founded and headed the Mil Design Bureau, where such famous helicopters as the Mi-8 and Mi-24 were created.
2. Nikolai Ilyich Kamov (1902-1973) is another helicopter designer, originally from Irkutsk. He founded the Kamov Design Bureau, famous for its coaxial rotor helicopters.
3. Boris Valentinovich Volynov was born in Irkutsk. He took part in two space flights and was twice awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. The only living cosmonaut from the first cosmonaut corps of the USSR. Considered to be the first Jew (by halakhic definition) to travel into space
Today, several significant Jewish monuments have been preserved in Irkutsk, which are part of the cultural heritage of the city. One of the main attractions remains the Irkutsk synagogue, the building of which attracts attention with its architecture. The synagogue conducts excursions, cultural events and educational programs, allowing citizens and tourists to become more familiar with the Jewish history of the city.
In addition to the synagogue, a Jewish cemetery has been preserved in Irkutsk, where many famous figures who contributed to the history of the city are buried.