Final answer:
Zionism, the movement to establish a Jewish homeland, began in the 1890s in response to European anti-Semitism. Throughout British rule in Palestine, Jewish immigration increased, leading to conflicts with Arab populations. After World War II, the UN partitioned the land, sowing the seeds for the establishment of Israel and subsequent Middle East conflicts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Historical Background of Jewish Settlement in Palestine
The movement for establishing a Jewish homeland is known as Zionism, which began in the 1890s by Jewish Austrian journalist Theodor Herzl. Herzl advocated for a separate Jewish state in response to widespread anti-Semitism and the persecution of Jews in Europe, including in progressive countries like France.
Jewish connection to Palestine is rooted historically, as the land was originally the site of the ancient Hebrew kingdom. However, this migration faced opposition from local Arab populations and some religious Jews believed the return to Israel should only occur with the coming of the Messiah.
During the period of British control from 1922 to 1947, the population of Palestine was predominantly Arab. Over time, Jews from various countries, including those fleeing German oppression in the 1930s, immigrated to Palestine increasing their presence significantly.
The British government attempted several negotiations to establish peace between Jewish immigrants and Palestinian Arabs, but tensions continued to escalate. The conclusion of World War II and the horrors of the Holocaust intensified international support for a Jewish state.
Britain turned over the decision on Palestine to the United Nations after the war. In 1947, the UN proposed a partition plan to create separate Jewish and Arab states which was contested by both sides. Alongside diplomatic tensions, Zionist settlers had formed defensive groups and were increasingly in conflict with British forces and Arab populations.
Eventually, this set the stage for the establishment of the state of Israel and further conflicts in the Middle East.