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Daniel Gordis
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Israel: A Concise History of a Nation Reborn Kindle Edition

by Daniel Gordis (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.6 out of 5 stars 1,451 ratings

Winner of the Jewish Book of the Year Award

The first comprehensive yet accessible history of the state of Israel from its inception to present day, from Daniel Gordis, "one of the most respected Israel analysts" (The Forward) living and writing in Jerusalem.

Israel is a tiny state, and yet it has captured the world’s attention, aroused its imagination, and lately, been the object of its opprobrium. Why does such a small country speak to so many global concerns? More pressingly: Why does Israel make the decisions it does? And what lies in its future?

We cannot answer these questions until we understand Israel’s people and the questions and conflicts, the hopes and desires, that have animated their conversations and actions. Though Israel’s history is rife with conflict, these conflicts do not fully communicate the spirit of Israel and its people: they give short shrift to the dream that gave birth to the state, and to the vision for the Jewish people that was at its core. Guiding us through the milestones of Israeli history, Gordis relays the drama of the Jewish people’s story and the creation of the state. Clear-eyed and erudite, he illustrates how Israel became a cultural, economic and military powerhouse—but also explains where Israel made grave mistakes and traces the long history of Israel’s deepening isolation.

With Israel, public intellectual Daniel Gordis offers us a brief but thorough account of the cultural, economic, and political history of this complex nation, from its beginnings to the present. Accessible, levelheaded, and rigorous, Israel sheds light on the Israel’s past so we can understand its future. The result is a vivid portrait of a people, and a nation, reborn.

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  1. Print length
    553 pages
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    English
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    Ecco
  4. Publication date
    October 18, 2016
  5. File size
    31.1 MB
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  1. Zionism was a movement, but it was also a collection of competing dreams.
    Highlighted by 863 Kindle readers
  2. In 164 BCE, a small band of Jews known as the Maccabees initiated a successful revolt against the Greeks. The Maccabees managed to create the first autonomous Jewish state in the Land of Israel in more than four hundred years, and Jews would forever celebrate that success through the holiday of Hanukkah.
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  3. The genius of the Jewish tradition was that in their liturgy and holidays, the Jews invoked the past in a way that made it seem present and real.
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Editorial Reviews

Review

Like Israel itself, Daniel Gordis' Israel is audacious, intensive, and unique.

-- "Ari Shavit, author of My Promised Land"

A readable, concise history that effectively captures the sense of grand ideas in Israel's identity.

-- "Kirkus Reviews"

From the Back Cover

Israel is a tiny state, and yet since its creation, it has captured the world’s attention, earned its admiration, and, often, been the object of its opprobrium. Why is so much of the international community focused on a small country like Israel? Why are Israelis so deeply divided on so many key issues? Why does Israel make the decisions it does? And what lies in its future?

Weaving together historical documents, letters, and interviews with his own intimate knowledge of the country, Daniel Gordis tells the story of Israel: when the idea of a Jewish state originated, how the dream was transformed into reality, and how Israel’s history has unfolded and why. Israel probes the soul of both a people and a country that have long triumphed over adversity, but which still face grave—some say insurmountable—challenges.

Gordis guides us through the milestones of Israeli history and introduces the passionate and formidable personalities who pioneered the country and shaped its pivotal moments. He illustrates how Israel became a cultural, economic, and military powerhouse—but he also explains its grave mistakes and traces its long history of international isolation. Clear-eyed and authoritative, Gordis shows that above all else Israel’s prime purpose—and its major accomplishment—has been the modern rebirth of the Jewish people.

With Israel, Gordis offers us a brief but thorough history of this complex nation, from its beginnings to the present. Accessible, level-headed, and rigorous, Israel sheds light on Israel’s past so we can understand its present and future. The result is a vivid portrait of a people, and a nation, reborn.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B01B19O4FA
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Ecco; Illustrated edition (October 18, 2016)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 18, 2016
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 31.1 MB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 553 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.6 out of 5 stars 1,451 ratings

About the author

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Daniel Gordis

Daniel Gordis

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Dr. Daniel Gordis is Senior Vice President and the Koret Distinguished Fellow at Shalem College. The author of more than ten books, Gordis is a regular columnist for both the Jerusalem Post and for Bloomberg View.

Gordis’ writing has appeared in magazines and newspapers including the New York Times, The New Republic, the New York Times Magazine, Azure, Commentary and Foreign Affairs, and his books have received numerous awards. He won the National Jewish Book Award for Saving Israel, and two of his books were Finalists for the National Jewish Book Award.

Gordis’ newest book is a history of the State of Israel entitled ISRAEL: A CONCISE HISTORY OF A NATION REBORN. Ambassador Dennis Ross, reflecting on the book, wrote, “When I am asked ‘Is there one book to read about Israel?’ I now have an answer.” Ari Shavit wrote, “Like Israel itself, Daniel Gordis’s Israel: A Concise History of a Nation Reborn is audacious, intensive and unique.” Yossi Klein HaLevi wrote, “Daniel Gordis has written a luminous history …. Gordis gives us the soul of Israel, and helps explain why the most hated country on the planet is also among the most beloved.”

Professor Alan Dershowitz has called Gordis “one of Israel’s most thoughtful observers.” The Forward has called him “one of the most respected Israel analysts around.” In 2014, the Jerusalem Post listed him as one of the world’s 50 most influential Jews, while Jeffrey Goldberg of the Atlantic has written, “If you asked me, ‘of all the people you know, who cares the most about the physical, moral and spiritual health of Israel?’ I would put the commentator and scholar Daniel Gordis at the top of the list.”

Customer reviews

4.6 out of 5 stars
1,451 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find the book informative and well-written, providing a balanced account of Israel's history. They appreciate its readability and concise style, with one customer noting how it helps visualize a timeline. The book receives positive feedback for its detail, with one review highlighting how it provides a good overview of the background. However, several customers express concerns about the author's obvious but unadmitted bias.

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143 customers mention "Information quality"132 positive11 negative

Customers find the book very informative, providing a full account of Israel's history.

"...Very readable, not too technical, but rich with information on Israel's fraught journey as an independent state...." Read more

"...they have not only survived but have become one of the most influential nations in the world. Gordis explains that Israel is not perfect...." Read more

"...I also give him credit for a solid overview of Israeli history told from an Israeli point of view...." Read more

"The book deals with a general history of the past and detailed happenings since the formation of the State of Israel in 1948...." Read more

98 customers mention "Readable"96 positive2 negative

Customers find the book easy to read and beautifully concise, praising its clarity and perfect writing style.

"...This book was just right. Very readable, not too technical, but rich with information on Israel's fraught journey as an independent state...." Read more

"...One of the unexpected parts of the story is how Gordis weaves the poetry, storytelling and music of Jews into the history and how they influenced..." Read more

"...The book has lots of footnotes, a glossary and more background information regarding the content...." Read more

"...What a brilliant and honest mind whose integrity shines through every word that is written." Read more

96 customers mention "Readability"96 positive0 negative

Customers find the book highly readable, describing it as a fun and worthwhile read.

"...This book was just right. Very readable, not too technical, but rich with information on Israel's fraught journey as an independent state...." Read more

"...history from the 19th century through independence, this is a great book to read...." Read more

"...What a brilliant and honest mind whose integrity shines through every word that is written." Read more

"...history of the State of Israel and is full of notes and lists of books for further reading. I enjoyed reading this book and happily recommend it!" Read more

11 customers mention "Balance"11 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the balanced approach of the book.

"...But overall, this is the most balanced account I've read yet...." Read more

"...In an unusually balanced, thoughtful and concise fashion, Gordis conveys the modern history of Israel...." Read more

"...Lastly, the author makes a point to give a balanced perspective providing details of Israel’s missteps and errors as a country and not just its..." Read more

"...It is a concise, yet comprehensive, extremely readable and fairly balanced accounting. Highly recommend!" Read more

7 customers mention "Detail"7 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the book's detailed content, with one mentioning how it provides a good overview of the background and another noting how it helps visualize a timeline.

"...'s history because the writer not only draws you in, but allows you to picture a timeline that is easy to understand...." Read more

"...But otherwise this book is objective, easy to read, and full of detail." Read more

"...Gives good overview of the background to the formation of the state of Israel and what happened after. Good read for a novice on the subject like me!" Read more

"...I think it covers important information, Mostly from the last 120 years, but also back millennia. I recommend it as an introduction to this history." Read more

Top reviews from the United States

  • TexasReader
    5.0 out of 5 stars Fascinating
    Reviewed in the United States on October 13, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    I was searching for a book that would help me to understand the historical context of today's Israel and the conflicts of today. This book was just right. Very readable, not too technical, but rich with information on Israel's fraught journey as an independent state. I thought the author was balanced in the telling, not pushing any slant or bias. I will watch the news now with a much better understanding of the country, the people, the region and the complexities.
    4 people found this helpful
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  • Tim OBriant
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent modern history of Israel
    Reviewed in the United States on June 18, 2019
    Verified Purchase
    Before reading this book, I realized that I knew essentially nothing about the modern state of Israel. I was under the impression that the events of WWII pricked the heart of the world who, out of guilt, decided to carve out a piece of Palestine and set up the state of Israel. That is far from the truth and Daniel Gordis does an excellent job of explaining the roots of the Zionist movement (which was secular in nature rather than religious). One of the unexpected parts of the story is how Gordis weaves the poetry, storytelling and music of Jews into the history and how they influenced the hearts of the Jewish people along the way (and still today). He recounts the role of principle world leaders (both plitical and otehrwise) who made an impact in how events unfolded. For example, I had no idea that from the beginning of the 20th centruy through to the beginning of WWII, Jewish businessmen (including the Rothschilds) were buying land in Palestine under the noses of the Ottomans and that Jewish people (mainly from Europe) were emmigrating there.

    Part of the Zionist movement was not just to find a homeland but to reclaim the Hebrew language. Until the early 20th century, Hebrew was essentially dead as a spoken language. But just like in the old Testament when the remnant of Jews returned to Judah from Bablylon, the people had to be retaught how to speak and read it. Jews would eventually emigrate to Israel from over 60 different countries and would have to learn a whole new language and culture. Many were expelled from their native countries and many had to excape them. One of the first significant laws passed by the new Israeli goverment was that any Jew who wanted to immigrae was allowed to, no matter where they came from or what they brought with them (which often was the clothes on their backs).

    We in the west often misunderstand the heart of Israel because of their troubled relationship with their Arab neighbors. What we have to understand is that no matter where the Jews have lived in the world, they have suffered greatly. They have been hated, attacked, discriminated against, expelled, and murdered. Because their numbers were so few and they were so spread out, they were easy targets. But the early Zionist leaders decided it was time for the new Jew who no longer had to take what they were given. Having their own land, even as small as it is, gave them a chance to create a life free from the pogroms and discrimination of the past and place their collective energy, talent, and brilliance to work on behalf of the Jewish people to prosper and defend themselves. Gordis explains that the process had been fraught with problems (especially with the Arabs). But they have not only survived but have become one of the most influential nations in the world.

    Gordis explains that Israel is not perfect. They are attacked from without and struggle from within about how to manage their country and their collective soul. I recommend you read this book for an excellent overview of the history and direction of the state of Israel.
    60 people found this helpful
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  • That one guy
    4.0 out of 5 stars Well written and concise, but short on details and perspective
    Reviewed in the United States on March 26, 2019
    Verified Purchase
    Since I was a kid, I've seen countless news stories about Israel, most of which have involved Palestinians, the PLO, Hamas, Hezbollah, battles, border skirmishes, and/or peace attempts. I have a vague understanding of the region's major problems, but I purchased this book because I wanted to take a deeper dive into the conflicts, to explore the complexities--and I was certain there were many to explore. If there weren't, surely the issues would've been resolved long ago, right?

    Gordis does a great job of explaining how Israel got its start. I enjoyed learning about the World Zionist Congress; about the array of factors driving Jews to move to Palestine, forsaking their homes in Europe, Africa, and elsewhere in the Middle East; and about Israel's zig-zagging path to independence. For the first eight chapters, Gordis manages to put all of that neatly in perspective.

    Unfortunately, Gordis loses his way in the second half of the book, as he races through high points and low points of the last 70 years. He still tries to put things in context, but the narrative moves so quickly that there's little time for him to do so. It feels like a lost opportunity.

    A more significant problem--and frankly, the biggest issue I had with this book--is the lack of outsider perspective. Gordis was born in America but emigrated to Israel over 20 years ago. In his introduction, he admits that he is a proud Israeli citizen and that that has perhaps colored his analyses.

    I give Gordis credit for his honesty. I also give him credit for a solid overview of Israeli history told from an Israeli point of view. However, I feel like a Palestinian would've had a very different story to tell.

    I'm not saying that Gordis avoids the issue of Palestinian refugees--in fact, he spends a fair bit of time addressing it. I'm only saying that I'd like to hear the same history told from a Palestinian perspective. Both POVs would be biased, of course, but at least I'd be able to compare and contrast the two sides.

    In sum:

    If you're looking for an overview of Israeli history from the 19th century through independence, this is a great book to read.
    If you're looking for a recap of important moments in Israeli history post-independence, it's still pretty good.
    If you're looking for a discussion of Israel and the Palestinian conflict--how it began, how it evolved, and where it stands today--this will do in a pinch, but you may want to look elsewhere.
    68 people found this helpful
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  • Steve Jackson
    5.0 out of 5 stars This book is correctly named; To the point and not at all boring.
    Reviewed in the United States on June 4, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    The book deals with a general history of the past and detailed happenings since the formation of the State of Israel in 1948. The book has lots of footnotes, a glossary and more background information regarding the content. It is well written with all acronyms defined and both sides of the conflicts covered. It was very informative and a great source for a background to current events.
    4 people found this helpful
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  • S. Ben-Meyer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent Short History of Isreal
    Reviewed in the United States on February 8, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    This writer is extraordinary. Although reading about the history of Israel is both uplifting and heartbreaking, each time you reach for this book to enjoy a chapter you can be assured that you will find cohesive and interesting facts about this country's history because the writer not only draws you in, but allows you to picture a timeline that is easy to understand. What a brilliant and honest mind whose integrity shines through every word that is written.
    8 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

  • marco
    5.0 out of 5 stars Fascinating story
    Reviewed in Italy on September 22, 2021
    Verified Purchase
    Fascinating book, rich, propaganda-free and very instructive. To my experience. best book available on the subject
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  • Oliver
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent.. does what it says on the tin
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on March 20, 2017
    Verified Purchase
    Totally brilliant! This book tells the story of Israel from the beginnings of Zionism to the present day.
    For the most part, it reads like a gripping piece of non-fiction narrative and it's packed with all the facts you need to piece it together. The research needed to write a book like this must be ridiculous!! I loved how the people involved are fleshed out as characters as it really helps you understand why events happened in the way they did.
    The account is thorough and truly concise at the same time. Of course there's always more detail that could have be included but there are books about every aspect of Israel's story for those who'd like more in-depth study.
    Many have tried to pen similar volumes but no one has succeeded with the balance and panache of Daniel Gordis. I highly recommend this book!
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  • Arun
    5.0 out of 5 stars good book
    Reviewed in India on November 22, 2021
    Verified Purchase
    tells the modern history of Isreal and also the origins of Isreal in ancient times
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  • Eddie Ozols
    5.0 out of 5 stars Provides a Warts and All History of Zionism and Creation of Israel
    Reviewed in Australia on May 12, 2018
    Verified Purchase
    This was an informative read which provided great insight into the formation of modern Israel. It traces that history back to the Zionist Congress in the 1890s and Herzl's vision of Jews coming together. It discusses pogroms in Europe, particularly one I Russia which is referred to regularly.

    It traces the events through WW1, the end of empires and the politics of the Jews and Arabs and European powers over the Middle East carve up. It moves through the rise of Nazism, the Holocaust and the flight to Palestine by Jews from Europe. Great insights I to the role Jewish culture played in appealing to Jews throughout and writing.

    Post WW2 we learn of the opposition by American Jewry to the formation of a Jewish state, which had support amongst religious Jews in Palestine.

    A review of the development of Israel, tensions between secular and religious Jews, the three conflicts which could have destroyed the new nation and the determination of a people 3000 years old to find safe haven in their historic lands.

    Finally a synopsis of Israel today. The police of occupation, the fear of threats from hostile neighbours and it's achievements beyond its size I science, medicine and the arts.

    A great insight into Israel and the complexity of the Middle East.

    WARNI NG: For Christians who read the end times involving Israel, this book is not for you. Israel is a secular state and few Jews see the return to their ancient land through Biblical lenses.
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  • Casey Kerkhoff
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent Historical outline of the transfer of the Ottoman Empire ...
    Reviewed in Canada on January 5, 2017
    Verified Purchase
    Excellent Historical outline of the transfer of the Ottoman Empire to the British Mandate and to the declaration of independence by the UN in 1948.The reviews of the various wars started by its neighbor nations with the first one within days of May 15th 1948.
    The author vividly describes the intolerance of the Arab nations in general and the Muslims in particular for the continued existence of Israel and the Jewish homeland.
    Because the author is Jewish some bias maybe expected, however that does not negate the history and struggles he describes.
    A good and concise history written in a fluent manner that keeps the reader interested and involved throughout the book.
    Report

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