This paper explains that, although Zionists, who are people who believed that Jews should return to their ancient homeland,
became active as early as the 19th century, the events of the 20th century resulted in the formation of the country of Israel. While many Israelis wanted to return to the land of their Biblical heritage, Palestine, Arabs in the Middle East did not think they should have to give up land for the new country. The author points out that two events in Israel's history since its formal establishment in 1947 show important facts about the country's history: the Six Day War in which the invading Arabs lost the Arab-designated area of Palestine, and the
intifada, the current war over the Arabs desire to reclaim this land, a conflict over which both sides can be seen as both "right" and "wrong" and represents the greatest problem facing Israel today. The paper stresses that Israel's accomplishments are incredible in its 48 years. Israel has not yet worked out a
solution to the problem of dislocated Palestinians. Through its military victories, Israel has demonstrated that warfare cannot solve this problem and that a peaceful solution will have to be found. Table of Contents Introduction Recent History Israel's Successes