Introduction and historical background

Introduction and historical background

The Goldbergs remember their first date, and the song “The Forgotten Alley” by Albert Harris, written in Soviet exile during World War II, recalls the home and family he left behind. These memories set the stage for exploring the history of the thriving Jewish community of Łódź before it was destroyed by the Nazis. After 1820, Łódź's development as an industrial hub attracted in-migrants from smaller towns in central Poland and its population grew exponentially. During the interwar period, the Jewish world was rapidly evolving: changing social, economic, and political conditions and the introduction of new technologies impacted younger generation's values and attitudes toward Jewish tradition. Through personal stories, archival documents, photos, and music, the exhibit explores the Jewish world of pre-war Łódź. The audio includes excerpts of popular songs “Zapomniana uliczka” (perf. Albert Harris), “Sex Appeal” (perf. Menasze Oppenheim), and “Zagrajcie mi” (perf. Adam Aston).