Historian and author Hillel Cohen discusses the significance of 1929 in understanding the Arab-Israeli conflict. They explore the Hebron Massacre, differing perspectives, challenges faced by historians, and interpretations of key phrases. The history and challenges of the West Bank, including Israeli settlements and occupation, are also discussed.
Read more
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
auto_awesome
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
Understanding the Arab-Israeli conflict requires listening to and comprehending the narratives and perspectives of both Israelis and Palestinians.
The events of 1929, marked by tensions and violence between Jewish and Arab communities, highlight the need to acknowledge historical facts and the pain endured by individuals on both sides.
Exploring lesser-known narratives and historical events surrounding the conflict challenges oversimplification and one-sided narratives, fostering a more nuanced understanding.
Deep dives
The Importance of Understanding Both Narratives
Understanding both the Palestinian and Israeli narratives is crucial for achieving a deeper understanding of the Arab-Israeli conflict. The author emphasizes the need to listen to and comprehend the perspectives of both sides to move beyond conflict. By doing so, it becomes evident that narratives are not solely shaped by official statements, but also by personal experiences and emotions. This understanding challenges preconceived notions and encourages a wider perspective to address the complexities of the conflict.
The Events of 1929: Clashes and Violent Incidents
The podcast explores the events of 1929, particularly in Jerusalem and Hebron. The tensions between Jewish and Arab communities, fueled by rumors and religious differences, escalated into large-scale clashes and attacks. Both sides experienced violence, with Jews being attacked in Hebron, Jerusalem, and other locations. The author highlights the importance of acknowledging historical facts and recognizing the pain and suffering endured by individuals on both sides during these events.
Unearthing Lesser-Known Narratives and Historical Events
The podcast delves into the lesser-known narratives and historical events surrounding the Arab-Israeli conflict. The author shares personal experiences and research that reveal the existence of acts committed by Jews against Arabs during 1929, which are often not well-known. By shedding light on these events and acknowledging the complexities of history, listeners gain a more nuanced understanding of the conflict and the need to avoid oversimplification and one-sided narratives.
Challenges of Confronting Conflicting Narratives
Confronting conflicting narratives can be uncomfortable but essential for developing a deeper understanding of the Arab-Israeli conflict. The author grapples with the discomfort that arises from recognizing alternative perspectives and questioning one's own preconceived beliefs. This confrontation also highlights the emotional dimensions that shape individual and collective narratives, reinforcing the importance of empathy and a willingness to challenge one's own biases to foster peace and reconciliation.
Seeking a Path to Peace and Coexistence
Despite the challenges and tensions, the podcast concludes with a glimmer of optimism. The author emphasizes the need for wider understanding and suggests that both Israelis and Palestinians, with the help of the international community, may find a way to coexist peacefully. While acknowledging the immense bloodshed and complexity of the conflict, this optimistic outlook reflects the author's hope for a future where both sides can move beyond violence and strive for peace.
How far back should you go to understand the current moment in the relationship between Israel and its Palestinian neighbors and the attack of October 7? Some would say 2005, or 1967, or maybe 1948 when the State of Israel was founded. But for historian and author Hillel Cohen of Hebrew University, year zero was 1929. Listen as he explains to EconTalk's Russ Roberts the significance of that year for the current moment, and the challenge of being an open-minded historian when tribal issues loom large.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode