Throughline A History of Zionism
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Jun 13, 2024 
Michael Brenner, a professor at American University and author, Derek Penslar, a Harvard Jewish history professor, and Anita Shapira, a Holocaust survivor and retired professor, dive into the origins of Zionism. They discuss the pivotal 1897 Basel Congress and Theodor Herzl's vision for a Jewish homeland amid rising anti-Semitism. The complexity of Zionism is explored, highlighting its emotional resonance and historical interpretations. The guests also reflect on diverse Jewish responses to the movement and its implications for Arab communities.
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Dreyfus Affair's Impact
- Theodor Herzl, covering the Dreyfus affair, witnessed antisemitism in France.
- This led him to believe that Jews were safe nowhere, inspiring Zionism.
Irony of Herzl's Integration
- Herzl's life exemplifies the ironic rejection of integrated Jews by European society.
- He admired Western culture, yet it fueled antisemitism, pushing him towards Zionism.
Early Zionism's Limited Appeal
- Zionism was initially a minority movement, unpopular among integrated Jews.
- Many Jews in Western countries felt no connection to a Jewish nationality or desire to live in Israel.
