Ethnic Minorities and Communities in Lithuania - Jews

"During almost 700 years of life in Lithuania, Jews have created a rich, diverse culture. Jews quickly became involved in the political, economic, cultural and social life of the state. Many famous Judaism scholars and rabbis lived and created in the country. There were worldclass spiritual academies - Jeshivas, where young people from many countries of the world came to study there. Jewish schools, societies, shops and cafes function in cities and large cities. There were over 250 synagogues in Vilnius at different times. Activities of the Jewish community enriched and enlivened the life of Lithuanian cities and towns. The contribution of Lithuanian Jews, often called Litvaks, is extremely important to the history and development of Judaism. Vilnius, after the name of North Jerusalem, was known until the Second World War as one of the most important centers of Yiddish culture in Europe."