During this time period, Jews lived on every continent, in cities, towns and villages, and at every economic level. There were Jewish communities in the Middle East and North Africa, Australia and the United States. Although Jews were spread across the globe, most lived in eastern Europe. The early 20th century was a time of change. Many Jews moved from towns to cities, drawn by new opportunities in industry and education. Others, especially in eastern Europe, fled poverty and violent anti-Semitism. In the 1880, roughly 88% of all Jews lived in Europe. By the 1939 only 57% did, while a third lived in the Americas. As Jews migrated in increasing numbers, family bonds stretched across oceans and continents.