Zionism History

Zionism Historical Background

Introduction to Zionism History

Zionism as an organized political movement originated in the 19th century, but its roots go back to the 6th century bc, when the Jews were carried off to captivity in Babylon and their prophets encouraged them to believe that one day God would allow them to return to Palestine, or Eretz Israel (the Land of Israel). Over the centuries, the Jews of the Diaspora associated the hope of the return with the coming of the Messiah, a savior whom God would send to deliver them. Individual Jews often migrated to Palestine to join the Jewish communities that continued to exist there, but they remained a small minority among a largely Arab population.” (1)

Resources

Notes and References

• Information about Zionism History in the Encarta Online Encyclopedia

Guide to Zionism History