The History of Zionism

Zionism is a surprisingly modern concept. Prior to the late 19th century the idea of a Jewish homeland had not been seriously considered, in fact most Jews were against it. But out of Switzerland came the Zionism idea, a homeland for the Jew’s which eventually led to the formation of the State of Israel. But the journey was a tough one from the Balfour declaration to mass migration during the British mandate and the use of terrorism and forced migration. We will track its history from the first Zionist conference in 1897, in Switzerland to the Israel state in 1948.

DELIVERY MODE

• Face-to-Face

COURSE OUTLINE

• Early days of Zionism, early players and the Zionist ideal
• Building support during the 20th century
• Zionism roadblocks and problems leading up to the formation of Israel

LEARNING OUTCOMES

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

1. Understand the first principles of Zionism and why it started when it did
2. Appreciate he gradual transition of Zionism from a fringe ideal to a central platform of Jewish thought
3. See how it led to the State of Israel and its central philosophy and purpose