The True Origins of Modern Zionism

While the State of Israel was founded less than 100 years ago, the origins of Zionism actually go back a lot further than one might think. In fact, Zionism was born at three distinct moments in history that all contributed to Zionism as the world knows it today.

The first story of Zionism dates back thousands of years ago starting with Abraham in biblical times. This paved the way for the modern movements of 200 years ago during the Enlightenment and 125 years ago when the first political Zionist movement was created.

Each of these occurrences shared the same dream: for the Jewish people to be recognized as a sovereign nation in their homeland, Israel.

Big Ideas

1. The Jewish connection to the land of Israel has existed for thousands of years, predating the modern, political movement of Zionism.
2. Zionism emerged at three different points in Jewish history, each time with a different focus and goal. 

Essential Questions

1. Is Zionism an ancient or new movement?
2. Could Zionism have emerged at any time in Jewish history?