A Jew is a person of Jewish descent or any person who declares himself or herself to be a Jew and who identifies with the history, ethical values, culture, civilization, community, and fate of the Jewish people. However, Landau finds these definitions to be problematic for various reasons and that there is no single way to define the Jewish community. .
Jewish identity is a developing historical phenomenon. Jews in many places throughout history have developed various ways to express their identity. Some Jews may identify with one characteristic but not with another such as non-religious Jews. Part of Jewish identity is a deep attachment to the state of Israel, its culture, and its people. .
The Jews settled into the Europe by 200 A.D. Where they were treated unfair because of their beliefs. They were exterminated, enslaved, forced to flee, segregated, and unable to practice Judaism. By 300 A.D. they were guaranteed freedom of religion and were allowed to practice Jewish culture in the Roman Empire. During the Early modern period, the Jews" lives were still governed, isolated, and basically tolerated, until the French Revolution. After this time they were expected to conform and were granted everything as an individual, but denied everything as a nation. Throughout the early medieval period, Jews have been plagued with common negative images that account for the public's hatred. Jews were considered to be "Christ-killers" and the reason behind the black plague. They also were blamed for the blood liable charge which accused Jews of kidnapping young males before puberty and sacrificing them. .
In early-mid nineteenth century, the Jews were granted emancipation, now committed to social integration, and granted everything as a nation. However, the Jews were not wiped of their negative history which returned into societies" eye. Long before the emancipation, the negative idea of Jews were taught and commonly thought that the European culture was now being contaminated by it.