Zionism in Damascus: Ideology and Activity in the Jewish Community at the Beginning of the Twentieth Century Contributor(s): Harel, Yaron (Author) |
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ISBN: 178076670X ISBN-13: 9781780766706 Publisher: I. B. Tauris & Company OUR PRICE: $173.25 Product Type: Hardcover Published: February 2015 |
Additional Information |
BISAC Categories: - History | Jewish - General - History | Middle East - General - Political Science | Political Ideologies - Nationalism & Patriotism |
Dewey: 320.540 |
Physical Information: 1.2" H x 5.6" W x 8.5" (1.30 lbs) 376 pages |
Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
Publisher Description: The beginning of the twentieth century was a period that saw far-reaching change in the political and geographical landscapes of the Middle East. From the impact of the revolution of the Young Turks in 1908 to the devastation of World War I and the subsequent British and French mandates in the region, Syria was particularly affected. Yaron Harel adds to the understanding of this period by examining an understudied aspect: the rise of Zionist intellectual thought and activity in the Syrian capital of Damascus. Through meticulous research, Harel highlights the fact that, during these difficult years, those parts of the Jewish community affected by the economic collapse of October 1875 were able to take solace in the rising trend of Zionist thought. He therefore demonstrates Zionism in Damascus was not a religiously motivated movement, but rather was class related. In particular, Harel examines what avenues of identity were available for the Jewish community in Damascus at a time when identification with Arab nationalism was on the rise in Syria. Were they to be Jewish - Arab? Or Jewish - Zionist?It is by examining issues such as Zionist education, health provision, women's political engagement and philanthropic activity that Harel offers an in-depth analysis of Zionism in the context of Jewish society. |