The Creation of Israel

by Jim Whiting

The formation of the State of Israel in 1948 is one of the most important events in recent history. About 3,000 years ago, Israel was a powerful nation. But it soon fell from power and in the second century CE most Jews were forced out of their homeland. Many went to Europe, where they were subject to prejudice and persecution for centuries. By far the worst case was the Holocaust, in which six million Jews died. Their suffering accelerated a move toward the development of a Jewish state in what came to be called Palestine. However, Palestine was the home to hundreds of thousands of Arabs. Conflict between the two sides was inevitable. Open warfare broke out after the United Nations voted to partition Palestine into a Jewish state and an Arab state. Though the Israelis achieved their independence, the region has never known true peace.

48 pages, Library Binding

First published November 1, 2007

Reviews

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was able to better understand the problems between Israel and the Arab states.

[Jeffrey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sadly, I don't know enough about this topic to really be able to say whether or not this book gives it a broad enough perspective. In 48 pages, it manages to cover the highlights of a 50 year period surrounding the initial recognition of Israel's statehood. It clearly has some biased moments, but takes a more impartial approach than most media coverage. While not necessarily an argument for statehood, it never really shows the solid argument against Israel's creation either. This side is certainly shown, but in no way is it argued.

It's most confusing points come in the presentation of dates. There is a chronology in the back of the book, but this should have been presented throughout the work. With years sometimes progressing with each paragraph, it was very confusing to understand the rapidity and connection between events. A timeline within each chapter would have appropriately summarized what was being detailed.