Ben-Gurion: The Burning Ground, 1886-1948

The Early Years

David Ben-Gurion was born in Płońsk, Poland, in 1886. His father was a rabbi, and his mother was a teacher. Ben-Gurion received a traditional Jewish education, but he also studied secular subjects such as history and philosophy. He was a bright and ambitious young man, and he quickly became involved in Zionist activities.

Ben-Gurion: The Burning Ground 1886-1948

by Shabtai Teveth

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1937 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1310 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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In 1906, Ben-Gurion immigrated to Palestine. He was one of the first members of the Second Aliyah, a wave of Jewish immigration to Palestine that began in 1904. Ben-Gurion quickly became a leader of the Jewish community in Palestine. He helped to found the Histadrut, the General Federation of Jewish Labor, and he also played a leading role in the establishment of the Jewish Defense Organization (Haganah).

The British Mandate

In 1917, the British government issued the Balfour Declaration, which pledged to support the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine. This declaration was a major victory for the Zionist movement, and it helped to pave the way for the British Mandate for Palestine.

The British Mandate was a period of British rule over Palestine that lasted from 1920 to 1948. During this period, Ben-Gurion continued to play a leading role in the Zionist movement. He helped to negotiate the terms of the Mandate, and he also worked to build up the Jewish community in Palestine.

The British Mandate was a difficult period for the Jewish people. The British government often vacillated in its support for Zionism, and it also imposed restrictions on Jewish immigration to Palestine. However, Ben-Gurion never gave up hope. He believed that the Jewish people would eventually achieve their goal of independence.

The War of Independence

In 1948, the British Mandate for Palestine ended, and the State of Israel was declared. Ben-Gurion was elected as Israel's first Prime Minister. He immediately faced a number of challenges, including a war with the Arab states.

The War of Independence was a difficult conflict, but the Israeli forces eventually prevailed. Ben-Gurion's leadership was crucial to Israel's victory. He rallied the Israeli people and he also secured the support of the international community.

The Founding of Israel

After the War of Independence, Ben-Gurion focused on building the new state of Israel. He oversaw the creation of a new constitution, he established a strong military, and he promoted economic development. Ben-Gurion also worked to strengthen Israel's ties with the United States and other Western countries.

Ben-Gurion served as Prime Minister of Israel for twelve years. He resigned in 1963, but he continued to be active in public life. He died in 1973, at the age of 87.

Legacy

David Ben-Gurion was one of the most important figures in the history of Israel. He was a visionary leader who helped to make the dream of a Jewish state a reality. Ben-Gurion's legacy is still felt today, and he is considered to be one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century.

Ben-Gurion: The Burning Ground, 1886-1948

Michael Bar-Zohar's biography of David Ben-Gurion is a fascinating and insightful look at the life of one of the most important figures in the history of Israel. Bar-Zohar draws on a wealth of sources, including Ben-Gurion's own diaries, to create a vivid and nuanced portrait of the man and his times.

Bar-Zohar's book is not just a biography, but also a history of Israel during Ben-Gurion's lifetime. Bar-Zohar provides a detailed account of the British Mandate, the War of Independence, and the early years of the State of Israel. He also discusses Ben-Gurion's role in the development of Israel's foreign policy, its military, and its economy.

Ben-Gurion: The Burning Ground, 1886-1948 is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the history of Israel or in the life of one of its most important figures. Bar-Zohar's book is a masterful work of scholarship that is both informative and engaging.

Ben-Gurion: The Burning Ground 1886-1948

by Shabtai Teveth

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1937 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1310 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE