FROM THE USHMM: Holocaust Survivors and the Establishment of the State of Israel

 

In the aftermath of the Holocaust, most survivors felt there was no future for Jews in Europe. They desired a homeland where Jews would no longer be a vulnerable minority. Those hopes were realized 75 years ago on May 14, 1948, when the modern State of Israel was established. Jews have had historical and religious connections to the Land of Israel for thousands of years. Explore below the establishment of the State of Israel through the lens of Holocaust history and its meaning to survivors.   Holocaust Survivors and the Establishment of the State of Israel Explore the article >>   A Survivor’s Reflection: “To Be a Free People in Our Land” Read the essay >>   Artist Arthur Szyk Depicts History of Israel View his lithograph >>   First American Ambassador to Israel: James G. McDonald Read his story >>   The Exodus Flag: A Symbol of the Plight of Jewish Refugees Learn the story >>   Over 5,000 Jewish Volunteers from British-Controlled Palestine Fought against the Germans Meet the Jewish Brigade Group >>     Stay Connected Live A Dangerous Blessing: Pregnancy and Motherhood in the Holocaust Friday, May 12, Noon ET Remind me to watch >>   Photos: Zionist youth march in a parade in the Zeilsheim displaced persons camp in Germany, 1945. USHMM, courtesy of Alice Lev; Holocaust survivor Peter Gorog in 1949. Courtesy of Peter Gorog; A lithograph depicting the history of Israel by Arthur Szyk. USHMM, gift of William Hallam Webber; James G. McDonald on his way to Geneva to take over his new duties as League of Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (Jewish and Other) Coming from Germany, circa 1933. USHMM, courtesy of James McDonald; A Museum conservator examines the flag from the Exodus 1947 ship with Museum Director Sara Bloomfield and the artifact's donors, Tom and Bill Silverstein. USHMM; Group portrait of members of the Jewish Brigade in England, 1944–45. USHMM, courtesy of Tosca Kempler; Five Jewish mothers and their infants, all of whom were born in a concentration camp during the war, are pictured here after liberation in May 1945. National Archives   Keep Holocaust memory alive to inspire citizens and leaders to confront hatred, prevent genocide, and promote human dignity in a constantly changing world. Visit ushmm.org/campaign to learn more. Visit the Museum Shop to Find Books and Other Items   UNITED STATES HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL MUSEUM 100 Raoul Wallenberg Place, SW Washington, DC 20024-2126 Main telephone: 202.488.0400 TTY: 202.488.0406