Pogroms in Southern Russia end

Background. The pogrom wave began after the assassination of Tsar Alexander II in March 1881, which sparked rumors blaming Jews. The violence swept through southwestern Imperial Russia, affecting over 200 locations. The term 'pogrom' became common in English following this wave. The riots were characterized by targeted anti-Jewish attacks in towns and villages, particularly in the Pale of Settlement, where large Jewish populations had resided since the late 18th century.

Continuation of Violence. Contrary to the legacy row's implication of an end in 1882, sources state the pogroms continued for more than three years. The government attempted to end the rioting, though authorities were often accused of tacit support. The violence persisted beyond the initial 1881–1882 period, extending into 1883. The May Laws of 1882, issued by Tsar Alexander III, prohibited Jews from moving into villages, ostensibly to address the causes of the pogroms, though the High Commission noted most pogroms began in towns.

Aftermath. The ongoing violence led to significant Jewish emigration, particularly from Odessa. Many Jews fled abroad, including to the United States and the Ottoman region. The violence caused a worldwide outcry and propelled mass emigration. The pogroms affected 64 towns, including Odessa, and hundreds of smaller villages. The legacy row's specific date of January 1, 1882, is not supported by the passages, which describe a wave lasting more than three years.