Fact Check: "Boris Yeltsin Jewish"
What We Know
The claim that Boris Yeltsin was Jewish is false. Boris Nikolayevich Yeltsin, born on February 1, 1931, in Butka, Sverdlovsk Oblast, Russia, was of ethnic Russian descent. His family had lived in the Ural region for generations, and both of his parents were ethnic Russians (Wikipedia). Yeltsin was raised in the Russian Orthodox Church, which further emphasizes his Russian heritage (Wikipedia).
While Yeltsin's policies as president were noted for promoting the rights of various ethnic minorities, including Jews, this does not imply that he himself was of Jewish ethnicity. In fact, Jewish leaders have praised Yeltsin for his role in ending state-sanctioned anti-Semitism in Russia, but this acknowledgment pertains to his political actions rather than his ethnic background (Jewish Journal).
Analysis
The claim lacks credible evidence and is contradicted by reliable sources. Yeltsin's biography clearly states that he was of Russian ethnicity, with no mention of Jewish ancestry (Wikipedia). The assertion may stem from a misunderstanding or misrepresentation of his political stance towards Jewish communities during his presidency, where he was seen as a reformer who supported the end of anti-Semitic policies in Russia (Jewish Journal).
Furthermore, websites that catalog ethnic backgrounds, such as EthniCelebs, confirm that Yeltsin was Russian and do not list any Jewish heritage (EthniCelebs). The sources used to support the claim do not provide any substantive evidence or credible references to Yeltsin's ancestry.
Conclusion
The verdict is False. Boris Yeltsin was not Jewish; he was of ethnic Russian descent. The claim appears to be a misinterpretation of his political legacy and actions regarding Jewish communities rather than a reflection of his personal heritage.
