Creator Bio

Joseph Süss Oppenheimer

1698–1738

Better known as “Jud Süss,” Joseph Süss Oppenheimer served several German princes. In 1732, he befriended Karl Alexander, Duke of Württemberg from 1733, whom he served as Court Jew and minister, performing roles that included administration of unpopular financial reforms. Oppenheimer was arrested the day of Karl Alexander’s sudden death in March 1737 and executed months later; his case became a cause célèbre that continued to attract attention for centuries.

Content by Joseph Süss Oppenheimer

Primary Source

Letter to the Envoy Keller

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Text
This 1735 letter by Joseph Süss Oppenheimer is a defense of his claim to a noble title against religious prejudice within the duchy of Württemberg.
Map depicting rivers and settlements, an image of a large building with a waterwheel, and an image of small huts with palm trees at the top and two cherubs with Dutch text.
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