Jewish Reactions to the Adoption of Permanent Surnames in German Lands 1787-1849

In the era of emancipation, most German-speaking states commanded their Jewish inhabitants to adopt permanent surnames. Accordingly, tens of thousands of surnames were registered between 1787 and 1849. Historiography, however, has valued this means quite differently. It is perceived as a necessary step towards emancipation (Bering 1995) or an oppression of cultural identity (Spitzer 2010). But despite the common depiction of Jews bearing passively and wailingly governmental force very little is know about the actual perspective of contemporary Jewry – the first generation that lived with these names.

Newly discovered archival material as well as memoirs challenge this negative depiction. Surprisingly, most name laws granted Jews much liberties in their choice. And the variety of newly created names is as diverse as the reactions of their first bearers towards them. In my paper I will argue that the adoption of permanent surnames offered various possibilities and was often perceived positively. While some enthusiastically cheered this policy, others even implemented surnames on their own, anticipating state laws. My sources tell the story of multifaceted creativity and pride, of exuberant patriotism and religious self-confidence. Accordingly, I will provide insight into the perspective of these Jews on the edge of emancipation, revealing their sometimes astonishing or even amusing argumentations.