The Jewish diaspora began in 597 BC when Jews were exiled from Israel and scattered across the Middle East. Despite attempts at extermination, like the Holocaust, and living as minorities in foreign lands, Jewish communities survived through maintaining their faith and cultural traditions. In modern times, Jewish diaspora populations thrived in the US following WWII, establishing communities and making significant economic and cultural contributions through education, business, and the arts. Jewish women also played an important role through organizations that aided immigrants and promoted social justice.