The claim that Jews were expelled from 109 countries is a widely circulated antisemitic myth and distortion of history. In reality, Jews were expelled from far fewer entire countries—closer to a dozen significant expulsions documented historically—and the exaggerated "109 countries" figure often counts expulsions from individual cities or smaller regions as separate countries. This myth originated with antisemitic and Holocaust-denying sources and is used to fuel hatred and blame Jews unjustly. Historically, expulsions of Jewish communities were driven by a mix of religious prejudice, economic scapegoating, and political power plays. Jews were often restricted from owning land and participating in many trades, pushing them into moneylending roles, which made them vulnerable targets. Monarchs and rulers expelled Jews often to seize their property, cancel debts owed to them, or to distract from political or financial crises by scapegoating a minority group. Notable expulsions include:
- In 1290, Jews were expelled from England primarily due to a combination of high taxation and their economic role as moneylenders, coupled with persistent anti-Jewish sentiment.
- In 1306, King Philip IV of France expelled Jews to seize their wealth amid war debts.
- In 1492, Jews were expelled from Spain under the Alhambra Decree as part of religious and political consolidation, also aiming to confiscate their assets.
These expulsions reflected the prejudices and political motivations of their times rather than any inherent faults of the Jewish people. The "109 countries" claim distorts these complex historical realities and is part of an antisemitic narrative seeking to blame Jews for their victimization rather than acknowledging the broader contexts of intolerance and exploitation they faced throughout history.
