Against Our Better Judgment : The Hidden History of How the U.S. Was Used to Create Israel - Complete

This book is Ian Smith's memoir, originally titled 'The Great Betrayal' in some editions. It covers his entire life through 1997, including his early years, his wartime exploits as a fighter pilot, and his political career. Smith discusses the history of Rhodesia from its founding, the challenges of decolonization, and the diplomatic struggles with the British government and other international actors. The book also details Smith's efforts to maintain Rhodesia's independence and his opposition to Robert Mugabe's regime in Zimbabwe. It is a comprehensive and sometimes controversial account of Smith's life and the complex history of Rhodesia and Zimbabwe.

Theodor Herzl's "The Jewish State" is a seminal political text outlining the concept of establishing a Jewish state in Palestine. Published in 1896, it served as a foundational document for the Zionist movement, advocating for a Jewish homeland to address antisemitism and provide a safe haven for the Jewish people. The book's proposals sparked intense debate and laid the groundwork for the complex political realities that would unfold in the 20th century. Herzl's vision, while influential, also faced criticism for its potential impact on the existing Palestinian population. The book's enduring legacy lies in its role as a catalyst for the creation of the State of Israel.

Baruch Kimmerling's 'Israel's Culture of Martyrdom' explores the ways in which themes of martyrdom, sacrifice, and national trauma have shaped Israeli society and politics. Kimmerling examines the historical and cultural factors that have contributed to a pervasive sense of victimhood and existential threat within Israel. The book analyzes how the memory of the Holocaust and the ongoing conflict with the Palestinians have been used to justify political decisions, mobilize public support, and foster a sense of collective identity. Kimmerling also explores the potential dangers of this culture of martyrdom, arguing that it can lead to a siege mentality and an unwillingness to compromise. His work offers a critical perspective on the complex relationship between memory, identity, and power in Israel.

Alfred Lilienthal's 'What Price Israel? ' offers a critical assessment of the costs and consequences of the United States' unwavering support for Israel. Lilienthal challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding the U.S. -Israeli relationship, arguing that it has come at a significant price for both countries. He examines the political, economic, and strategic implications of American aid to Israel, contending that it has fueled regional instability and alienated the United States from other key allies in the Middle East. The book questions the long-term sustainability of the relationship and raises concerns about the impact of Israeli policies on Palestinian rights and the prospects for a peaceful resolution of the conflict. Lilienthal's work is a provocative critique of U.S. foreign policy and its entanglement in the complexities of the Middle East.

Donald Neff's 'Warriors for Jerusalem' offers a comprehensive historical account of the struggles for control over Jerusalem, one of the world's most contested cities. Neff examines the various political, religious, and military conflicts that have shaped Jerusalem's destiny, from ancient times to the modern era. He delves into the significance of the city for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, exploring the ways in which religious beliefs and national aspirations have fueled the争执over its sovereignty. The book analyzes the roles of key figures and events in the city's history, including the Crusades, the Ottoman Empire, and the Arab-Israeli conflict. Neff's work provides a nuanced perspective on the enduring complexities of Jerusalem and its place in the broader Middle Eastern landscape.

Tom Segev's 'The Seventh Million' explores the profound and lasting impact of the Holocaust on Israeli identity and culture. Segev examines how the memory of the Holocaust has been internalized and transformed within Israeli society, influencing everything from political discourse to educational practices. The book delves into the ways in which the Holocaust has been used to justify political decisions, shape national narratives, and foster a sense of collective victimhood. Segev also explores the controversies and debates surrounding the Holocaust in Israel, including the tensions between remembrance and the need to move forward. His work offers a critical perspective on the complex and often contradictory ways in which the Holocaust has shaped Israeli society.

Wilbur Crane Eveland's 'Ropes of Sand' offers a critical examination of U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, arguing that a series of miscalculations and misunderstandings have undermined American interests in the region. Drawing on his experience as a CIA operative, Eveland provides an insider's perspective on the complex relationships between the United States, Arab nations, and Israel. The book analyzes the historical, political, and economic factors that have shaped U.S. policy, highlighting the unintended consequences of decisions made in Washington. Eveland contends that a lack of cultural sensitivity and a failure to appreciate the nuances of Middle Eastern politics have contributed to a legacy of mistrust and instability. His work serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of navigating the region's turbulent landscape.

J. Bowyer Bell's 'Terror Out of Zion' provides a comprehensive account of the Jewish paramilitary groups that operated in Palestine during the British Mandate era. Bell examines the history, ideology, and activities of organizations such as the Irgun Zvai Leumi and LEHI (Stern Gang), which employed tactics of violence and terrorism to advance their goals. The book explores the motivations and strategies of these groups, as well as the impact of their actions on the broader political landscape. It sheds light on the complex dynamics of the conflict between Jews, Arabs, and the British authorities in Palestine, offering a nuanced perspective on the use of violence as a tool for political change. Bell's work is considered a seminal study of Jewish underground movements and their role in the creation of the State of Israel.

Richard P. Stevens' 'American Zionism and U.S. Foreign Policy, 1942-1947' delves into the intricate relationship between American Zionist organizations and the formulation of United States foreign policy during a critical period. Stevens examines how Zionist groups in America influenced political decision-making in Washington, particularly concerning the establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine. The book analyzes the strategies employed by Zionist lobbyists, their connections to key figures in the government, and the ways in which they shaped public opinion. It sheds light on the interplay of domestic and international factors that ultimately led to the U.S. endorsement of the United Nations partition plan for Palestine in 1947. Stevens' work offers valuable insights into the dynamics of interest group politics and the making of American foreign policy in the Middle East.