Subjects: Greater Land of Israel

What Would Herut Do

By

While in South Africa, Begin addresses the South African Revisionist Party’s Executive Council and speaks about what Herut would do if it was the leading party in the Government. This address was printed over the course of three newspaper editions, each focusing on a specific topic. In the first article, Begin explains the country’s internal struggles, and then shares Herut’s solutions to those problems. The discussion of Israel’s economic problems continues in the second articleIn the last article, Begin speaks about the lack of peace with Arab countries and that liberating all of Eretz Israel is the road to peace. He expresses the necessity in giving complete equality of rights to the Arab population living in Israel. Begin also spends time discussing is the politics within the Government and concludes that it is crucial to not give up the dream of Herut being victorious in elections.

Menachem Begin Broadcasts to South Africa

By

Begin broadcasts on the South African Broadcasting Corporation. He first speaks about the link between the Union of South Africa and Israel. He explains that their geographic link is narrowed because of “modern means of communication.” There is also a spiritual link between the two nations; both are dreamers and pioneers. Begin speaks about the goodwill he feels based on seeing the country and meeting the Prime Minister, press, and citizens. He shifts to talk about Israel’s potential to develop in both agricultural and industrial ways. He speaks of other countries considered to be in the Middle East and that in those countries, majority of people are in “misery and disease and malnutrition.” Begin expresses that the condition of these other countries make them a target for communism. Then he strongly states that despite threats from Israel’s enemies, Israel is going to stay on the map. He concludes that the Union of South Africa and Israel will have a solid friendship.

My Message Is One of Faith’ Menachem Begin Tells S.A.

By

Begin speaks to a South African crowd and first pays tribute to the men who died and are ready to die for the Jewish people. He speaks of Ze’ev Jabotinsky having a minority opinion when he argued for State evacuation. Begin explains that he is not a politician because politicians cannot teach patriotism. Additionally, quoting Churchill, Begin says he would rather be irresponsible and right, than responsible and wrong. Begin speaks what Herut would like to see happen in Israel and specifically references the importance of having a constitution. He speaks of Germany and the dangers if Germany gets back their weaponry. He also discusses of the lack of peace happening between Arab countries and Israel, and that Israel is prepared for war. Begin expresses his frustration about the Government not doing enough to absorb more Jews from North Africa. He closes by reminding the crowd that despite the pessimism regarding the dream of redeeming the Homeland, the dream has come true.

In the Mirror of the Year

By

In his Rosh Hashanah greeting, Begin reflects on key events that happened during the past year, mainly focusing on the weakening relationship between the U.S. and Israel. He first acknowledges the change in leadership in the U.S. and then explains through examples the new U.S. Government’s positions towards Israel. The first example Begin mentions is how American newspapers speak about Israel. Then he talks about John Foster Dulles, the new Secretary of State, and his relationship with both Moshe Sharett and Egyptian General Naguib. Begin shifts to speak about the Prague trial and 9 doctors put on trial in Moscow. Begin explains how the death of Stalin affected the relationship between Israel and the Soviet Union. He closes with sharing mistakes his colleagues have made, and how these mistakes impaired Israel’s relationship with Soviet Union and the U.S.

The Flag of Israel Will Yet Fly From the Tower of David….We Shall Yet Meet on the Road to Jerusalem

By

On the eve of fifth anniversary of Israel’s Independence, Begin addresses a parade of former Etzel members. He reminisces about the success in gaining freedom from Britain. This freedom was acquired by Etzel’s blood and suffering. Then Begin shifts to describe the battle of Jaffa, which took place after the British left. After his description, he raises the questions of who drove out the British and conquered Jaffa. He argues that if the nation believes it was the Haganah, he says to to Etzel soldiers that “[we] will bow our heads before them and acknowledge: ‘You expelled the British, you ended the foreign regime, you brought the nation from subjugation to freedom.'” However, if it is the other way around, Haganah members should praise Etzel members. Begin praises the soldiers at the parade and identifies them as disciples of Ze’ev Jabotinsky. He closes sharing hopes that Etzel will continue to fight to unite the Homeland.