The Birth of Israel: A Historical Overview

On May 14, 1948, Israel was declared a state by David Ben-Gurion amidst geopolitical tensions. The declaration followed the UN's 1947 decision to partition the land into Jewish and Arab states. Despite American pressure to delay, Ben-Gurion proceeded, leading to immediate Arab invasion. The war lasted over a year, with Israel emerging victorious, establishing itself as an independent nation for the first time in 2000 years.

What significant event took place on May 14, 1948, in Tel-Aviv?

• The beginning of the British mandate

• The end of World War II

• The declaration of the state of Israel

• The signing of a peace treaty

What was the role of the League of Nations concerning the land of Israel after WWI?

• To establish a new Arab state

• To grant independence to the region

• To recognize the Jewish historical connection and mandate British support

• To divide the land among European powers

What was the outcome of the UN vote on November 29, 1947?

• A resolution to delay any decision

• An agreement to form a single unified state

• A plan to divide the land into Jewish and Arab states

• A decision to maintain the British mandate

What was the reaction of the local Arab population to the UN partition plan?

• They accepted the plan peacefully

• They launched a war throughout the country

• They sought international mediation

• They proposed an alternative plan

What was the main concern of military leaders before the declaration of the state of Israel?

• The lack of international recognition

• The ability to withstand an Arab invasion

• The internal political divisions

• The economic stability of the new state

What did the proclamation of the state of Israel emphasize?

• The need for immediate military action

• The historical and moral rights of the Jewish people

• The establishment of a monarchy

• The rejection of any peace talks

What was the immediate consequence of the declaration of the state of Israel?

• A peaceful transition of power

• An immediate Arab invasion

• A global economic embargo

• A civil war within Israel

What percentage of Israel's fighting force were survivors of Nazi death camps?

• 10%

• 75%

• 25%

• 50%

By the end of the war, what was the status of the Jewish state?

• It remained under British control

• It was divided into multiple regions

• It emerged victorious as an independent nation

• It was annexed by neighboring countries

How long did the Arab invasion last after the declaration of the state of Israel?

• Two years

• Over a year

• Several months

• A few weeks