History of Zionism, 1600-1918, Vol. 2 (of 2)Sokolow, Nahum
History
History of Zionism, 1600-1918, Vol. 2 (of 2)
Sokolow, Nahum
Jews -- Restoration; Zionism -- History
From that time forward the Zionist idea began to occupy the attention
of the English Press. The question became topical, the old English
traditions found new expression. Most people had no conception that
they were speaking in the spirit of old traditions――for few knew of
this remote chapter in ♦English history――but they did it unconsciously,
which makes their action perhaps even more valuable. Many a journalist
among the élite of the intellectuals not only gave assistance to the
cause of Zionism in the Press, but went a step further, and helped
vigorously in the political work. In connection with this matter the
name of the doyen of English journalism, Mr. C. P. Scott, Editor of
the _Manchester Guardian_, may be especially mentioned. Since the very
beginning Mr. C. P. Scott has given the whole problem a very careful
and sympathetic attention, and was an influential mediator between
Zionists and leaders of British politics. He and Dr. Weizmann had
conversations with some personalities, who strengthened them in their
hopes that the ground was favourable for Zionism. Other Zionist workers
in England also shared their view, and Dr. Gaster, too, in conjunction
with Dr. Weizmann, had some important conversations with English
leaders. The impressions which both had formed confirmed the hope that
Zionism has a great future in England.
♦ “Engish” replaced with “English”
We can by this time, without committing any indiscretion, take this
opportunity of mentioning one of the influential personalities who had
given great and never-to-be forgotten services in the cause of the
Zionist idea, that is the Rt. Hon. Herbert Samuel, late Home Secretary,
who unites in himself the brilliant qualities of an English statesman
with an enthusiastic attachment to Judaism, but had never yet taken an
active part in essentially Jewish affairs. His wonderful energy, his
distinguished talents and his patriotic zeal had for long been devoted
to the services of the country, and both in the Asquith ministry and in
Parliament he formed one of the most distinctive figures. Although he
directed his activities exclusively to questions of Home administration,
he turned his mind also from the commencement of the war to the great
political problems of foreign politics, and when the opportunity was
offered to become more acquainted with the Zionist idea, this idea
won his sympathy, and he championed it with the full force of his
convictions. It is sufficient to mention the words contained in his
speech at the Demonstration of December 2nd at the London Opera House:
“that he has stood for Zionism not only in the Cabinet, but also
outside it.” These were modest words. As a matter of fact, he has not
only stood for Zionism, but he has also done much to elucidate Zionist
questions. He merits truly a page of honour in the history of Zionism.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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