Germany, Turkey, and Zionism 1897-1918 »

For the most part, studies on Zionism as an international movement have centered on Great Britain. Professor Friedman has focused on a new point of view. Using unpublished official German and Zionist records and contemporary diaries, memoirs, and other private sources, he proves conclusively that, in spite of the opposition of her Turkish ally, the German government emerged as the foremost protector of the Zionist cause during World War I. Germany was the first European power to view Zionist aspirations with favor. Friedman argues that had it not been for her persistent intervention with the Turkish government, the Jewish community in Palestine would not have survived.