The Development of the Chasidic Movement

What are the roots of the Chassidic movement? What was the personage of its founder, Rabbi Yisroel Ba’al Shem Tov? Presented is a dialogue with noted scholars and historians as they trace the birth of Chassidism.

Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi founded Chabad Chassidism. He was imprisoned in czarist Russia for his revolutionary ideals until his release in the year 1798; he is also known as “the Alter Rebbe.”

Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneersohn, fifth Chabad Rebbe, founded the Chabad yeshivah system in the town of Lubavitch in 1897; he is known as “the Rebbe Rashab.” 20 Cheshvan, 1860 - 2 Nissan, 1920.

Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneersohn, seventh Chabad Rebbe, assumed leadership of the movement in 1950; he is simply known as “the Rebbe.”