Feb. 28, 1670

“Expulsion Decree,” issued by Leopold I, Archduke of Austria [Austria]: “His Royal Majesty, after careful consideration and due to most pressing causes, hereby proclaim, to be conveyed to the Jewdom of Vienna: that the Jews (without exception) are to be removed from here and from the whole country of Austria, and that none of them may remain here after the Feast of Corpus Christi [translator’s note: i.e., June 5, 1670], lest they be punished corporally or by death. Christians shall face severe punishment for letting any harm come to the physical integrity or property of Jews; likewise, Jews are to be punished collectively, corporally or by death, even outside the country, should they let any harm come to Christians. Within 8 days from today, the magistrates shall submit suggestions to the Commission on Jews, regarding the settling of all outstanding taxes and levies. In the meantime and until further notice, all debts of Christians to Jews shall remain unenforceable, lest they be voided altogether. Likewise, no Jew may sell his house without prior permission from the Commission, and also may not leave from here without having settled all his debts to creditors and to the city, lest he face corporal punishment or death.”