Zionism Decoded in 101 Quotes (TRACTION)

The destruction of Gaza by Israel has shown that Zionism, the state’ s foundational ideology, continues to shape Israel's actions. This book brings together the most revealing quotes from both supporters and opponents of Zionism. These quotes enable readers to understand the root causes of the unending violence that has plagued the Holy Land since the Zionist project began in the late 19th century. The book dispels common misconceptions about the religious origins of Zionism by tracing them back to Protestantism in 17th-century England. It also demonstrates how, when the new political ideology finally attracted Jews two centuries later, it caused a profound rift among them that persists to this day. A militant Zionist minority has proudly fanned the flames of revolution in Jewish life, creating the 'New Hebrew Man'. Their detractors have decried the new creed as a betrayal of Jewish values and beliefs. Palestinians also offer their perspective on Zionism, which has disrupted their lives for over a century. Finally, quotes from Christian Zionists explain why they form the backbone of Israel's global support.

Yakov M. Rabkin has been Professor of History at the University of Montreal since 1973. He has also taught at universities in Australia, France, Israel, Japan, Russia, South Africa, Ukraine and the United States. His areas of expertise are contemporary Jewish history, international relations, and science and technology policies. His books, translated into many languages, include A Threat from Within: A Century of Jewish Opposition to Zionism, and What is Modern Israel? Rabkin is frequently invited to comment on current events in electronic and printed media. Ronnie Kasarils, a South African Jew, devoted his life to fighting apartheid in South Africa where he was a guerilla fighter, comrade of Nelson Mandela and later Minister for Intelligence Services in the ANC Government of Thabo Mbeki.