The Jewish Community of Spain

This article examines the political dynamics of the contemporary Spanish Jewish community. First, the community's history, foundation, settlement and early development are introduced. Then itsorganizational structure and function are addressed in the countrywide, local (particularly Madrid and Barcelona), and international (relations with Israel) arenas. The community's legal status is explored next. The community's character emerges through an analysis of leadership dynamics; Jewish identity, as similation, and integration; antisemitism and philosemitism. The study concludes with a look at current trends and directions.