Truman chose to recognize the state of Israel in 1948 – but here is the story behind it

by Chaya Cikk
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This is a small part of the story of how President Truman came to the decision to recognize the State of Israel in 1948 despite fierce opposition from the State Department. This a very unique and special story. Who knows what would have happened with a different President in the White House.

President Truman

Truman was President of the United States from 1945 to 1953. He became president at the death of President Roosevelt, a mere 93 days after he became Vice PResident. When it came time to vote for the UN Partition Plan in 1947 to split the area called Palestine into an independent Arab and Jewish State, there was heavy pressure from within the US Government to vote against.

However, thanks to Eddie Jacobson who was a good friend of President Truman things changed. Eddie and Truman met in their military service during World War One. It was through Eddie Jacobson that the President met Chaim Weizman, who was able to convince the President to change his mind and vote in favor. Eventually, the US was the first to recognize the State of Israel on the 14th of May 1948.

Chaim Weizman

Chaim Weizman was a Zionist leader and a voice for the State of Israel. He later became the first President of Israel. Weizman was able to convince President Truman to vote in favor and support of the State Israel. He also dealt with many British politicians in order to garner support and help the young State of Israel.

Weizman was also a Chemist and today in Israel there is the Weizman Institue named after him in Rechovot where Weizman and his wife lived and are buried. The Weizman Insitute does a lot in research in science and has helped further medicine and much more.

Who knew that this would be the beginning of a beautiful friendship between the US and Israel. The US helps Israel financially by providing what Israel needs to help defend itself against its enemies. Furthermore, the US has helped Israel with peace plans with some of its neighbors.

Finally, the State of Israel is very thankful for the United States and all it does to help Israel thrive, including recognizing Jerusalem as the eternal capital of Israel.

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