The Project on Russian and Eurasian Jewry seeks to increase the knowledge and appreciation of the rich history and culture of Russian-speaking Jews by bringing together scholars and experts from around the world. Based at the Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies at Harvard University, the Project sponsors seminars, panels, symposia, public programs and related activities to promote and broaden the study of the history, culture, identity and legacy of the Jews of Russia and Eurasia. The Project encourages interdisciplinary inquiry on critical topics related to Russian and Eurasian Jewish identity and contributions.
One of the Project’s principal arms is the Seminar on Russian and Eurasian Jewry, which features innovative thinkers, practitioners, authors, journalists and historians.
Great Russian Jews Who Shaped the World is the theme of the 2018-2019 series. Its four panels will examine the contributions, achievements and legacies of four great individuals—Israel’s fourth prime minister, Golda Meir; author and Shoah witness Vasily Grossman; violin virtuoso David Oistrakh; and World Chess Champion Mikhail Botvinnik. The lives of these talented, charismatic and influential figures began in the former Russian Empire in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and spanned much of 20th century.
Recordings of the Project’s events are freely available online.
The Project on Russian and Eurasian Jewry was established at the Davis Center in the fall of 2017 with the generous support of Genesis Philanthropy Group. The Project is directed by Maxim D. Shrayer.