In 'The Jews', Hilaire Belloc provides a comprehensive analysis of the state of anti-Semitism in Europe at the turn of the 20th century. Despite being a Catholic, Belloc had great appreciation for the intellectual contributions of Jews to European society, but also acknowledged the growing antagonism towards them. Writing before the Holocaust, he issued a warning to Jews that ill will was brewing and would soon lead to violence. Belloc believed that Jews were an alien presence in European society and that they needed to fit in or face retaliation. He criticized their arrogance and tendency to hide their identity but also complimented their intellectual brilliance and abilities. Belloc believed that honest communication between Jews and Christians was the key to preventing future cycles of tension and expulsion.