Violent conflicts involving the Yishuv facts for kids

Before the country of Israel was created in 1948, the Jewish community living in the area, known as the Yishuv, was involved in several conflicts. These events were part of a larger struggle between different groups in a region called Mandatory Palestine. This area was controlled by the British at the time.

These conflicts happened for various reasons. They often involved Arab communities protesting against Jewish immigration and British rule. The Jewish community also sometimes fought against British policies. Understanding these events helps us learn about the history of the region.

Early Conflicts and Riots (1920-1933)

The early years saw several riots. These were often protests by Arab groups against the Jewish population. The British forces tried to keep peace during these times.

What Happened in 1920 and 1921?

• 1920 Nebi Musa riots: These were riots by Arabs against Jews. They happened in and around the Old City of Jerusalem. After these events, the Haganah was formed. The Haganah was a Jewish defense organization.
• 1921 Jaffa riots: More riots occurred in the city of Jaffa. Arab rioters were involved. The British military forces tried to stop the violence. These events led to official investigations and new British policies.

The 1929 and 1933 Riots

• 1929 Hebron–Safed riots: These were large demonstrations and riots across Mandatory Palestine. The worst violence happened in Hebron and Safed. Both Jewish and Arab communities became more determined after these events.
• 1933 Palestine riots: During big Arab protests, demonstrators tried to enter the Jewish area of Jerusalem. However, the British police stopped them successfully.

Major Uprisings and Insurgencies (1936-1948)

Later, the conflicts became larger and more organized. These included a major Arab revolt and a Jewish insurgency.

The Arab Revolt (1936-1939)

• 1936–1939 Arab revolt: This was a big uprising by Arabs. They were protesting against the large number of Jewish people moving into the area. They also protested against the British authorities. The Haganah and another Jewish group called the Irgun were involved. The British Army and police worked to stop the revolt. This revolt led to the creation of the Irgun. It also resulted in the British limiting Jewish immigration and land purchases.

The Jewish Insurgency (1944-1947)

• 1944–1947 Jewish insurgency: This period saw violent actions by Jewish groups. It started in February 1944 and ended in November 1947. The British government was limiting Jewish immigration to Palestine. This policy led to fighting between the British and Zionist groups. Some Jewish groups, like the Irgun and Lehi, used armed force. This conflict eventually contributed to the British leaving Palestine.

The Civil War (1947-1948)

• 1947–1948 Civil War: This was the first part of the 1947–1949 Palestine war. During this time, the Jewish and Arab communities in Palestine fought each other. The Haganah, Irgun, and Lehi were key Jewish groups. Arab groups like the Army of the Holy War and the Arab Liberation Army were also involved. The British military was still present. This war led to the creation of Israel and major population movements.

See also

• List of wars involving Israel
• Israeli–Palestinian conflict