Gunzburgs: A Family Biography

The Gunzburgs, a Jewish family from Russia, arrived in Paris in 1857 with a large family, retinue, and domestic help. They observed religious laws and launched themselves into Parisian high society, becoming prominent in Jewish communities in Russia and France. The family experienced tragedy and witnessed the Russian pogroms and revolution of 1905, as well as the First World War and the Second World War. Lorraine de Meaux's story uncovers lost archives and brings together distant family members.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 512 pages
\n Publication date: 31 October 2019
\n Publisher: Peter Halban Publishers Ltd
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The Gunzburgs, a prominent Jewish family from Russia, arrived in Paris in 1857 with a vast entourage comprising business staff, personal assistants, secretaries, tutors, wet-nurses, nannies, coachmen, ladies companions, valets, and maids. Their arrival marked a significant chapter in their lives as they embraced both their religious traditions and sought integration into Parisian high society.

Napoleon III's vision for modernizing France provided the Gunzburgs with ample opportunities, particularly in the realm of banking. Driven by their determination and entrepreneurial spirit, they quickly established themselves as influential figures in the Jewish communities of both Russia and France. Their family fortunes flourished through hard work, foresight, and strategic marriages, solidifying their position among the most prominent Jewish families of the time.

The Gunzburgs' journey was marked by significant historical events, including the Franco-Prussian War of 1871 and the Russian pogroms and revolution of 1905. Despite the challenges they faced, the family remained resilient and their sons played pivotal roles in the armies of three countries during the First World War. However, the outbreak of the Second World War once again forced them to flee as refugees, seeking safety in different parts of the world.

In her captivating story, Lorraine de Meaux uncovers lost archives, letters, and pictures, bringing together distant family members and shedding light on the rich history of the Gunzburgs. Through her meticulous research and storytelling, de Meaux provides a vivid account of a family that overcame adversity, persevered through political turmoil, and left an indelible mark on both Russian and French society.

\n Weight: 910g\n
Dimension: 237 x 159 x 44 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781905559992\n \n