Chaim Weizman

He urges Zangwill, despite their previous disagreements, to take a leading role in uniting the Jewish cause. „I regret deeply that it was impossible for me to go over to East Preston from London, as I was suddenly called away to Manchester. The Russian gentleman whom you sent on to Cowen, and who was sent on to me, gave me a considerable amount of work and anxiety, and I had to make the journey to London on Tuesday instead of Friday, as I intended, but, of course, I shall be pleased to come up and see you as soon as necessary. Cowen and Greenberg, no doubt, have mentioned to you the object of our meeting. Whatever differences of opinion have separated you from the general Zionist body, differences, which, I am afraid, are still in existence, I am nevertheless convinced that at the present critical moment, we must try and find the possibility for working together and save what can be saved from this debacle which befalls our people. I suppose you are aware that so far nothing has happened in Russia to ameliorate in the least degree the situation of the Jews, but on the contrary, the laws against us are handled with the greatest possible severity. Relaxation whatsoever, even for the families of combatants, is disallowed. The moral and material distress is beyond description. Our Palestinian possessions, which have been built up with so much hard work and so many sorrows, are in great danger. There are sufficient reasons, I think, for all of us to try and do our utmost at the present moment, to save what can be saved from this conflagration. On the other hand, I am inclined to think with you that the present historical moment, through which the civilized world is passing, may hope that the powers, which are going to alter the map of Europe, will find time to consider the fate of 13 million Jews, who, no doubt, represent a small nation, which has given to the world as much as any other nation, and which, in the present struggle, is taking a very prominent part. But much will depend upon the possibility of uniting all responsible Jews, whether they should be able to raise their voice and put the claim in a dignified way. Needless to say, that we look to you as the one who would be able to take the lead in this matter, and I think that we shall be only too delighted to help you with all means in our power. This is why I wanted to see you and to discuss with you the particular steps which may be taken in this course. You know, Mr. Zangwill, that I have been one of your most convinced adversaries, and I never hesitated to tell you so when the opportunity arose. In the same time I would like you to know that this was a political affair and certainly there was no personal feeling of any sort in the controversy. This is what emboldened me to come to you now in a time of stress like this and ask you to accept our cooperation for the good of Jewry.“ This is an exceptional piece of Jewish history, illustrating the urgent political discussions that helped lay the groundwork for the Balfour Declaration (1917) and the eventual establishment of the State of Israel. A rare and highly significant letter from one of the most influential figures in Zionist history..

Weizmann and David Ben-Gurion. A highly significant document, shedding light on the Zionist leadership's strategies during one of the most pivotal moments in Jewish history. Signed by Chaim Weizmann and Selig Brodetsky, this letter is a valuable piece for collectors of Zionist history and World War II-era Jewish political movements. „The Executive have been discussing with leading members of the different Zionist bodies in London, as well as with the British Section of the Jewish Agency for Palestine, the present political situation and the steps which ought to be taken to mobilise all Zionist and Jewish forces in this country, under the direction of the Jewish Agency, for the advancement of our aims in Palestine. The Executive are convinced that every Jew in this country can greatly contribute, at this critical moment, to safeguarding the future of our people and our homeland, and can and must take an active part in our political work; in enlightening British public opinion on the general Jewish situation, and on our efforts and achievements in Palestine which provide the only lasting solution of the Jewish problem. The Executive have, therefore, decided to establish a special Department, the task of which will be to bring before British public opinion, as well as before the Jews of this country, the urgency of the Jewish problem and the important part which Palestine can play in its solution through large-scale immigration and colonisation under suitable political conditions. Such a Department can only perform its functions adequately if it has behind it the full weight of Zionist and Jewish support. The Executive have accordingly decided to convene a special Conference of selected laymen from London and the provinces, at which Dr. Weizmann and Mr. Ben-Gurion will report on the present political situation, the position in Palestine, and the problems facing us during and after the war; and where Dr. Brodetsky will outline a plan for our work in this country. A general discussion will follow. The Conference will be held at the Anglo-Palestinian Club (43/44 Great Windmill Street, Piccadilly, London, W.1.) on Sunday, November 9th, under the Chairmanship of Dr. Brodetsky. The morning session will open at 11 a.m. with statements from Dr. Weizmann and Mr. Ben-Gurion; lunch will be provided (1.30 to 2.30 p.m.) in the Club’s restaurant; and Dr. Brodetsky’s statement will follow in the afternoon. The Conference will close at 5.30 p.m. We should like to extend to you an urgent invitation to attend this meeting; we sincerely hope that you will be able to be present, and to take part in the important work which the new Department will have to undertake. Would you kindly let us know as early as possible whether we may expect you at the Conference.“.