The Rabbi's Top Ten Israeli History Events

We recently celebrated Yom HaAtzma'ut, Israel's Independence Day, back on May 6th. And in anticipation of the 66th anniversary of the founding of the Jewish state, Rabbi Schwartz devoted his May 1st online column for the Times of Israel to the ten most important historical events concerning the State of Israel.  Here now is The Rabbi's Top Ten Israeli History Events:

In celebration of Yom Ha’atzmaut, here (chronologically) is my compilation of the most significant events in the history of modern Israel:

  1. Balfour Declaration—The dream comes into view, after intense lobbying.

  2. United Nations Partition Vote—The dream becomes reality.

  3. Declaration of Independence—A Jewish homeland after 2000 years.

  4. War of Independence—Israel will have to fight for her existence, but prevails.

  5. Six Day War—Modern Israel is like the ancient Maccabees.

  6. Yom Kippur War—The illusion of invincibility is gone, but invasion is stayed.

  7. Entebbe—Miracles do happen; a first class military helps.

  8. Begin’s Election—A Polish Irgun leader becomes the voice of the second Israel.

  9. Sadat’s Visit—Euphoria that peace is always possible.

10. Rabin’s handshake/assassination—When euphoria gives way to despair.

Previous posts in this series include:
  
The Rabbi’s Top Ten: The Best of Everything Jewish

The Rabbi’s Top 10 Jewish Foods

The Rabbi’s Top 10 Jewish Modern Events