Palestine: A Short History

Author: Muhammed Ilhami

From the Roots of Zionism to Today
 
This study provides a comprehensive overview of Palestine's modern and contemporary history, from the origins of the idea of a Jewish return to Palestine to the events of late 2023. It examines the roots of Zionism, the establishment of the movement by Theodor Herzl, his unprecedented success compared to predecessors, and the state of Palestinian society during the late Ottoman era.
 
The study explores the West's role in planting Zionism in Palestine, the Arab world's failure to counter its dominance, and the swift rise of the movement. It also analyzes the emergence and evolution of resistance movements, highlighting the factors behind their phases of progression and regression. It examines why secular movements dominated at times, how Islamic movements reclaimed leadership, and their eventual role in liberating Gaza, which endured five wars before surprising the world with a large-scale offensive.
 
The study concludes with key intellectual and political insights, shedding light on the forces shaping the Palestinian struggle and its trajectory.