The choice of matrimonial witnesses by Parisian Jews: Integration into greater society and socio-professional cohesion (1875-1914)

Matrimonial witnesses, despite their limited number (two for each spouse) can serve as a barometer for measuring the intensity of family and professional ties that link witnesses and couples. The superposition of these two dimensions and the study of marriage certificates listing at least three witnesses practicing the same profession shed light on the structure of Parisian Jewish society at the end of the 19th century. In the business world in which most traditional Jewish professions are found, behaviors were more autonomous. The chronological evolution, however, shows a trend toward weaker cohesion, especially for merchants. While the new professions in medicine, law, and those in the artistic, cultural and intellectual worlds are present, they allowed for a greater independence from family ties. The chronological division shows that these professions were able to structure themselves progressively as autonomous circles.