Jewish Emancipation:
Was the opposition justified?

Opposition to Jewish Emancipation was justified from both Christian and Jewish standpoints. Many Jews opposed integration into society in fear of assimilation or acculturation. Despite their granted equal rights, the standing anti-Semitism still kept the Jews on an inferior social status. The Christians were biased against the Jews because of urban myths attributed to their religious practices. In the late 18th century, there was a marked tendency to exaggerate the number of Jews.
Many Jews opposed integration into society in fear of being assimilated or acculturated. Moses Mendelssohn stressed his views on a balance of integration into society and Jewish continuity. Many Jews opposed the idea of involvement in secular culture due to the fear of loss of personal identity. Emancipation meant an excellent opportunity for the Jews to gain equality in society, although they weren't accepted by the Christians so easily. 
Despite their granted equal rights, the standing anti-Semitism still kept the Jews on the inferior social status. Even though many people encouraged human rights, anti-Semitic feelings were still prevalent in the general public. The state's legal recognition of Jewish civic and political equality did not mean it extended to social recognition and equality. Racism was still present despite such documents. Some individuals believed that Jews shouldn't get rights or be assimilated because their racial inferiority could only harm the "superior race". The racism can be traced back to past stereotypes and negative visions of the Jewish people. 
The Christians were racist against the Jews because of urban myths attributed to their religious practices. It has been a long-standing popular belief of many Christians that the Jews had killed their savior and leader, Jesus Christ. It was also a Christian legend that the Jews had such horrific practices as the use of Christian children's blood in religious ceremonies. Some Christians even believed that the Jews were part of a secret society bent on world domination. All of these beliefs contributed to anti-Semitic feelings and reason for them to oppose emancipation. 
Throughout the 18th century, there was a marked tendency to exaggerate the number of Jews. In Amsterdam, 18th century, it was estimated that there were one hundred thousand Jews. High natural increase was considered a problem. Christians often feared that their jobs would be at stake if the Jews gained prominence. Because Jews were restricted to the professions of money lending and trade, they were seen as a greedy and cunning nation. Emancipation would give more power and rights to the type of people the Christians considered to be so distasteful. 
Jews opposed Emancipation and integration into society due to fear of assimilation and acculturation. The Christians felt likewise because they didn't want Jewish culture incorporated into their society. This was due to racism acquired over the years over the years based on population's discriminatory folklore against Jews and their practices. Despite their rights, Jews were still in low social regard and they were viewed as greedy and selfish people. Both Jews and Christians justified their opposition to Emancipation. It's just too bad that the Christian side was all based on lies.