Overview
This lecture traces the origins and consequences of the Balfour Declaration, the rise of Zionism, and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing historical events and their long-term effects on the region.
British Promises and World War I
- In 1917, Britain issued the Balfour Declaration, supporting a Jewish homeland in Palestine.
- At the time, 90% of Palestine's population was not Jewish.
- Britain also promised Arab leaders independence for revolting against the Ottoman Empire.
- After WWI, Britain took control of Palestine under a League of Nations mandate, disregarding local wishes.
Zionism and Jewish Immigration
- Zionism is the movement for Jews to establish a homeland in Palestine, motivated by persecution in Europe.
- Theodor Herzl's 1896 book, "The Jewish State," argued for a separate Jewish state.
- Zionist organizations promoted immigration, land purchases, and political lobbying.
- By the 1930s, Jewish communities in Palestine grew and established their own institutions.
British Mandate and Palestinian Resistance
- The British mandate included clauses to facilitate a Jewish national home.
- Palestinians were not given political rights or consulted about their future.
- In 1936, Palestinians went on strike against British rule and Jewish immigration.
- The Peel Commission proposed the partition of Palestine, requiring forced population transfers, which failed to resolve tensions.
White Paper, WWII, and Escalation
- The 1939 White Paper limited Jewish immigration and land purchases, angering Zionists.
- WWII increased Jewish migration to Palestine, many fleeing persecution.
- Tensions escalated between Zionists, Palestinians, and the British.
End of Mandate and Creation of Israel
- By 1947, Jews were 30% of the population and owned 6% of the land.
- The UN proposed partitioning Palestine, giving 55% to a Jewish state.
- Palestinians and Arab states rejected the plan; Zionists accepted and prepared militarily.
- Attacks and expulsions of Palestinians increased in 1947-1948.
- On May 14, 1948, Israel declared statehood; three-quarters of Palestinians became refugees (Nakba).
- Israel ended up controlling 78% of former Palestine; remaining land was annexed by Jordan and Egypt.
Continuing Conflict and Demographic Struggle
- Subsequent efforts to partition the land reduced Palestinian territory further.
- In 1967, Israel occupied remaining Palestinian territories, leading to demographic parity but unequal rights.
- Human rights groups describe the system as apartheid.
- Ongoing tactics include colonization, home demolition, and expulsion.
Ancient History of Palestine
- Palestine, originally called Canaan, was controlled by various groups: Canaanites, Hebrews, Philistines, Assyrians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Muslims, Crusaders, and Ottomans.
- The region has seen repeated conquest and shifting populations.
- Jerusalem has significance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Balfour Declaration — 1917 British statement supporting a Jewish homeland in Palestine.
- Zionism — Movement for establishing a Jewish state in Palestine.
- Mandate System — Post-WWI policy giving Britain control over Palestine.
- Nakba — "Catastrophe" in Arabic, referring to the mass displacement of Palestinians in 1948.
- Apartheid — System of institutionalized segregation and discrimination.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the roles of Britain, Zionism, and Palestinian resistance in shaping the conflict.
- Study the effects of the Balfour Declaration and UN partition plan.
- Read about the 1948 Arab-Israeli War and Nakba for further understanding.