Print this page Modern Zionism: History, Conflict and Contemporary Debates

Modern Zionism has played a major role in shaping the modern Middle East and continues to influence global politics, diplomacy and international debate. This course traces the origins of Zionism in nineteenth-century Europe, its growth in Ottoman Palestine, and the historical events that led to the establishment of the State of Israel. It then explores the complex relationships between Israel, the Palestinians and neighbouring states, and examines how the movement has evolved since 1948. Particular attention is given to recent events in Gaza, Lebanon and the wider region, and how these developments have affected international politics and public debate around the world. The course aims to provide historical context and encourage informed discussion of one of the most significant and contested political movements of modern times. No prior knowledge is required.

DELIVERY MODE

Hybrid (face to face and online simultaneously)

COURSE RESOURCES

Suggested Readings:

• Shlomo Avineri "The Making of Modern Zionism"
• Anne Perez "Understanding Zionism: History and Perspectives"

COURSE OUTLINE

• We begin by tracing the growth of Zionism from its founding at the end of the 19th century to its growth in Ottoman Palestine and the effects of WW1 and the British.
• The inter-war years led to a three-way struggle in Palestine between the Jews, the Arabs and the British. This lecture traces the growth of Zionism as it responded to British governance of Palestine and the Holocaust and the creation of a Jewish state.
• After 1948 an on-going struggle continued between Jews and Arabs. Modern Zionists have dealt with this in ways that some have seen as controversial, but others have seen as necessary. This lecture looks at Zionism from 1948 until the 21st century and how it affected the Middle East and the destinies of Israelis and their Arab neighbours.
• The events of the last three years in the Middle East, especially around Gaza, Iran and Lebanon, have dominated the world in many ways. This lesson explores how this domination has played out and what likely scenarios could play out in the future

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Understand the history and nature of modern Zionism and the reasons for its rise
2. Have an awareness of the struggle and how the movement has dealt with persecution and opposition
3. Be able to understand the opposition to Zionism and how this has played out over the last 100 or more years
4. Place the concept of modern Zionism into the larger world context