Does Israel Represent All Jews?: The Great Debate

A tension between Israeli and diaspora Jewry has been obvious since the founding of the state. And nowhere was that more apparent than in the epic exchanges between philanthropist Jacob Blaustein and Prime Minister David Ben Gurion. In this episode, Noam shows how their debate both animated and clarified so much about the divide between Diaspora Jewish leadership and Israeli Jewish leadership - even today. ~~~~ Unpacking Israeli History is generously sponsored by Alan Fisher and Barbara Sommer, and Jon and Rachie Teller, and this episode is generously sponsored by Yoni & Lisa Wintner. ~~~~ Learn more about Unpacked: https://jewishunpacked.com/about/ Visit Unpacked on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/unpacked  Teaching about this topic? Check out our relevant educator resources here: https://unpacked.education/relationship-counseling-israel-and-the-diaspora/ Unpacking Israeli History about German reparations: https://jewishunpacked.com/the-great-debate-around-german-reparations/ Unpacking Israeli History about Entebbe: https://jewishunpacked.com/operation-thunderbolt-the-raid-on-entebbe/ Unpacking Israeli History about Operation Solomon: https://jewishunpacked.com/ingathering-of-exiles-from-ethiopia-to-israel/ ~~~~ Sources https://library.oapen.org/bitstream/id/f40eb209-80a3-47c3-bc0d-106f6413103a/628405.pdf In Vigilant Brotherhood: The American Jewish Committee My Life, Golda Meir’s autobiography Ben-Gurion: Father of Modern Israel, Anita Shapira ~~~~ Unpacked is a division of OpenDor Media

Om Podcasten

Join self-confessed history nerd Dr. Noam Weissman on a journey through the fascinating and sometimes controversial events and personalities that have shaped Israel’s past and present. Each week, Noam explores the layers of Israeli history, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the cultural forces at play—drawing on a variety of sources and perspectives. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to better understand this complex region, you’ll find a nuanced, authentic, and thought-provoking take on Israel—free from oversimplification and political spin.