Around the 1990s, Russian Jews became the predominant Jewish group in Bensonhurst. Many left the Soviet Union because of persecution. Anti-Semitism was prevalent over there and parents did not want their children growing up around hatred. Like many other immigrants, they brought to America some of their culture and traditions. They continue to cook Russian foods and celebrate major Jewish holidays like Hannukah and Passover. Many had moved from the Russian enclave in Brighton Beach. Some Russians left Bensonhurst because of lack of space and moved to other areas such as Sheepshead Bay. Even with this movement, there are still many Russians Jews in Bensonhurst.
