Zionism — the national liberation movement of the Jewish people dedicated to establishing an independent Jewish state — emerged in Europe in the late 19th century under the leadership of Theodore Herzl (pictured). Herzl (May 2, 1860 – July 3, 1904) was an Austro-Hungarian Jewish lawyer, journalist, playwright, political activist, and writer. The First Zionist Congress was held in Basel, Switzerland, from August 29 to August 31, 1897. On the recent 125th anniversary of that event, Zionists from all over the world again gathered in Basel to commemorate and celebrate the achievements of Zionism — primarily the founding of the State of Israel.
Quote: “I can’t remember the last time that the World Zionist Organization held such a meaningful and central event,” said one of the so-called ‘elders’ of the movement that was the force behind the establishment of the only Jewish State in the world.” | “Usually, these foundations and organizations would make fun of the WZO [World Zionist Organization] and ask why it is still relevant. Suddenly, many of them literally begged the organizers of this historic event to arrive as participants or for a few minutes on stage during one of the many plenaries.”
— The Jerusalem Post
Learn more about the First Zionist Congress from Wikipedia. ►
Learn more about Theodore Herzl from Wikipedia. ►
Read “Zionism’s glory shows in Basel on 125th anniversary of First Zionist Congress — comment” ►
Watch “Theodor Herzl: The Zionist Dream of a Jewish State | History of Israel Explained | Unpacked” [9:33]. ►
Photo: The Daily Beast
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