1948-1963: Israeli History, Politics, and Society

The period from 1948 to 1963 was a transformative one for the State of Israel. During these years, the young nation faced numerous challenges, including wars with its Arab neighbors, political instability, and social and economic problems. However, Israel also made significant progress during this period, establishing itself as a regional power and a vibrant democracy.

Ben-Gurion, Zionism and American Jewry: 1948 - 1963 (Israeli History, Politics and Society Book 45)

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Language	:	English
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The Establishment of the State of Israel

The State of Israel was proclaimed on May 14, 1948, following the end of the British Mandate of Palestine. The declaration of independence was met with immediate recognition from the United States and the Soviet Union, but it was also rejected by the Arab states. The following day, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq invaded Israel, marking the beginning of the 1948 Arab-Israeli War.

The 1948 Arab-Israeli War was a decisive victory for Israel. The Israelis were able to repel the Arab invasion and expand their territory beyond the borders of the former British Mandate. The war also resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, many of whom fled to neighboring Arab countries.

The 1950s: A Period of Growth and Consolidation

The 1950s were a period of growth and consolidation for Israel. The country's population doubled, as Jewish immigrants from around the world flocked to the new state. The Israeli economy also grew rapidly, as the country developed its agriculture and industry.

Politically, the 1950s were a time of relative stability. The Labor Party, led by David Ben-Gurion, dominated Israeli politics. Ben-Gurion was a pragmatic leader who sought to build a strong and prosperous Israel. He also worked to improve relations with the Arab states, although with limited success.

The Suez Crisis of 1956

The Suez Crisis of 1956 was a major turning point in Israeli history. The crisis began when Egypt nationalized the Suez Canal, which was owned by a British and French consortium. Britain and France responded by invading Egypt, with the support of Israel. However, the United States and the Soviet Union intervened to force the invaders to withdraw.

The Suez Crisis had a significant impact on Israel. The crisis showed that Israel was now a major regional power, and it also helped to strengthen the country's ties with the United States. However, the crisis also led to a deterioration in relations with the Arab states.

The 1960s: A Period of Conflict and Change

The 1960s were a period of conflict and change for Israel. The country faced increasing pressure from its Arab neighbors, and it also experienced a number of internal challenges, including political instability and social unrest.

In 1967, Israel fought the Six-Day War against Egypt, Jordan, and Syria. The war was a decisive victory for Israel, which captured the Sinai Peninsula, the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and the Golan Heights. The Six-Day War also marked the beginning of the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories.

The Six-Day War had a profound impact on Israeli politics and society. The war led to a surge of national pride and confidence, and it also helped to strengthen the country's ties with the United States. However, the war also raised new challenges for Israel, including how to deal with the Palestinian population in the occupied territories.

The period from 1948 to 1963 was a transformative one for the State of Israel. During these years, the young nation faced numerous challenges, but it also made significant progress. Israel established itself as a regional power and a vibrant democracy, and it also played a key role in the Middle East conflict.

The legacy of this period continues to shape Israeli history, politics, and society today.

Ben-Gurion, Zionism and American Jewry: 1948 - 1963 (Israeli History, Politics and Society Book 45)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	446 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	232 pages

FREE