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Moshe Dayan: Israel's Controversial Hero, a Complex Figure in Jewish Lives

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Moshe Dayan, An Israeli Military Leader And Politician, Was A Controversial Figure In Jewish History. Moshe Dayan: Israel S Controversial Hero (Jewish Lives)

Moshe Dayan was an Israeli military leader and politician who played a prominent role in the Arab-Israeli conflict. He was a controversial figure, admired by some for his military prowess and charisma, but criticized by others for his hawkish views and role in the Six-Day War. Dayan's life and career provide a fascinating window into the complex history of Israel and the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Moshe Dayan: Israel's Controversial Hero (Jewish Lives)

by Mordechai Bar-On

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Early Life and Career

Moshe Dayan was born in Degania Alef, a kibbutz in British-ruled Palestine, on May 20, 1915. His parents were Russian Jewish immigrants who had come to Palestine as part of the Second Aliyah, a wave of Jewish immigration that occurred between 1904 and 1914. Dayan grew up on the kibbutz, where he developed a strong sense of Zionism and a deep love for the land of Israel.

In 1936, Dayan joined the Haganah, a Jewish paramilitary organization that fought against the British during the Arab Revolt. He quickly rose through the ranks and became one of the Haganah's most respected commanders. In 1948, Dayan played a key role in the Israeli War of Independence, leading the Haganah's forces in the Negev Desert.

After the war, Dayan served as a senior commander in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). He was instrumental in the IDF's victory in the Six-Day War in 1967, which resulted in Israel's occupation of the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and Sinai Peninsula. Dayan became a national hero in Israel, but his hawkish views and support for settlements on the occupied territories drew criticism from many quarters.

Political Career

In 1973, Dayan was appointed Minister of Defense by Prime Minister Golda Meir. He served in this position during the Yom Kippur War, in which Israel fought against Egypt and Syria. Dayan's handling of the war was criticized by many, and he resigned from his post in 1974.

After leaving the government, Dayan became a member of the Knesset, the Israeli parliament. He served in the Knesset until his death in 1981. Dayan remained a controversial figure throughout his political career, but he was also a highly respected elder statesman.

Legacy

Moshe Dayan was a complex and enigmatic figure who played a major role in the history of Israel. He was a brilliant military commander, a charismatic politician, and a controversial figure who often divided opinion. Dayan's legacy is still debated today, but there is no doubt that he was one of the most important figures in Israeli history.

Moshe Dayan: Israel's Controversial Hero (Jewish Lives)

by Mordechai Bar-On

4.5 out of 5