The american war_congress_and_zionism-reuben_fink-azoa-1919-224pgs-pol-rel

TheAmerican War Congress

and Zionism

Statements by Members of the

American War Congresson the

Jewish National Movement

ZIONIST ORGANIZATION OF AMERICA55 FIFTH AVENUE, NEW YORK

1919

The Zionist Organization of America gratefully acknowl-edges its indebtedness to Mr. Reuben Fink, of Washington,for his services in the compilation of this material .

February, 1919

The American War Congress and Zionism

Introductory NoteIn 1897, after seventeen centuries of exile, the Jewish

people, through an International Congress assembled at Basle,Switzerland, formulated its demand for a "publicly securedand legally assured homeland in Palestine." In 1917, onlytwenty years later, Great Britain indorsed the Jewish positionand pledged, upon her strength and her prestige, the realiza-tion of the Basle Platform . Thus, this project, from its in-ception, by a people which, however prodigal of effort andsacrifice, nevertheless lacked the political and military powerto effect its design, has developed into one of the war aimsof the nation possessing the best equipment, political andmilitary, to secure these terms of peace to which it is com-mitted.

The Declaration to support the Jewish National enterprisefollowed the military penetration of Palestine during thesuccessful campaign inaugurated by Great Britain in the latesummer and the autumn of 1917. This pledge was publishedon behalf of the British Government by the Honorable ArthurJ. Balfour, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, in his letterto Lord Rothschild, on November second of that year . Sincethat time, Great Britain has proceeded with the consummationof her purpose by effecting the complete military occupationof Palestine and by the installation of the Zionist Commis-sion, which administers, under British protection, the affairsof Jewish Palestine .

The Zionist Organization of America, in order to ascertainthe sentiment of the members of the Legislature towards theBritish Declaration particularly, and towards the Zionist move-ment in general, and to inform itself of what action, execu-tive or legislative, the War-Congress would be inclined torecommend or approve, sent to each member of both Houses,on June 11, 1918, a copy of the following letter :

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The American War Congress and Zionism"On November 2, 1917, the British Government, through the

Honorable Arthur J . Balfour, Secretary of State for ForeignAffairs, officially declared its sympathy with Zionist aspira-tions, saying :

`His Majesty's Government view with favor the establish-ment in Palestine of a National Home for the Jewish people,and will use their best endeavours to facilitate the achievementof this object, it being clearly understood that nothing shallbe done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights ofnon-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights and politi-cal status enjoyed by Jews in any other country .'

"This declaration was officially indorsed by the French Gov-ernment on February 11, 1918, and again by the Italian Gov-ernment on February 23, 1918 .

"In view of President Wilson's utterances in favor of therights of all similar nationalities, which are to be given theopportunity of determining their own futures, it is of the utmostinterest to the Jewish people of the United States to be informedof the opinion of the members of the United States Senate andof the House of Representatives on this important question .

"We, therefore, take the liberty of addressing you at thistime with the following inquiries :

"1. Do you approve the official Declaration of England,France and Italy on the Zionist question, as quoted above?

"2. Would you please let us have your reasons for favoringthe Declaration? (If you do not favor it, please give us yourreasons.)

"3. Do you favor action by the United States Government inline with the British Declaration, now or within the near future?

"4. Do you favor the adoption of an appropriate resolutionby Congress in favor of the establishment in Palestine of aJewish National Centre?

"5. What are your views in general with regard to the effortof the Jewish people to establish a national home in Palestine?"

In addition to the letters received by the Zionist Organiza-tion from the members of the War Congress, this book con-tains the statements of the governments pledged to support theJewish national aspirations .

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Besides Great Britain, Italy and France, the governments ofSerbia, Holland, Greece, Siam, China and Japan have throughofficial pronouncements committed themselves to the supportof the project to establish a Jewish Homeland in Palestine .Whereas no action in line with the British Declaration hasbeen taken by the Government of the United States, PresidentWilson in his letter to Rabbi Wise, on the thirty-first ofAugust, 1918, expressed his sincere interest in the work ofreconstruction in Palestine, and his satisfaction over the growthof the Zionist movement in the Allied countries and in theUnited States.

The fact that the statements of the members of Congresswere received as early as June and as recently as December,1918, will explain why some of them only have been writtenin the light of the President's letter .


The Balfour Declaration

Letter to Lord Rothschild from Mr . Arthur James Balfour,Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs :

Foreign Office, Nov. 2nd, 1917 .Dear Lord Rothschild

I have much pleasure in conveying to you on behalf ofHis Majesty's Government, the following declaration of sym-pathy with Jewish Zionist aspirations, which has been sub-mitted to, and approved by, the Cabinet :

"His Majesty's Government view with favor the establish-ment in Palestine of a National Home for the Jewish people,and will use their best endeavours to facilitate the achievementof this object, it being clearly understood that nothing shall bedone which may prejudice the civil and religious rights andpolitical status enjoyed by Jews in any other country."

.I should be grateful if you would bring this declaration tothe knowledge of the Zionist Federation .

Yours sincerely,

ARTHUR JAMES BALFOUR.

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i ne nmerican war congress ana zionasm

Letter of President Wilsonto Rabbi Stephen S. Wise

The White House, Washington, 31 August, 1918.

My Dear Rabbi Wise :I have watched . with deep and sincere interest the recon-

structive work which the Weizmann Commission has done inPalestine at the instance of the British Government, and Iwelcome an opportunity to express the satisfaction I havefelt in the progress of the Zionist movement in the UnitedStates and in the Allied countries since the declaration by Mr .Balfour on behalf of the British Government, of Great Britain'sapproval of the establishment in Palestine of a national homefor the Jewish people, and his promise that the British Gov-ernment would use its best endeavors to facilitate the achieve-ment of that object, with the understanding that nothing wouldbe done to prejudice the civil and religious rights of non-Jewishpeople in Palestine or the rights and political status enjoyedby Jews in other countries .

I think that all Americans will be deeply moved by thereport that even in this time of stress the Weizmann Commis-sion has been able to lay the foundation of the Hebrew Univer-sity at Jerusalem, with the promise that that bears of spiritualrebirth.

Cordially and sincerely yours,WOODROW WILSON .

Dr. Stephen S . Wise, Chairman, Provisional Executive Com-mittee for General Zionist Affairs, New York .

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Government Indorsementsof Jewish National Aspirations and of the

British Declaration

SERBIAThe following letter, of December 27, 1917, from Milenko

Vesnitch, the head of the recent Serbian Mission to the UnitedStates, was sent to Capt . David Albala, a veteran of the SerbianArmy, and forwarded by him to the Provisional ZionistCommittee

Serbian War Mission to the United States.Dear Captain Albala :

I wish you to express to your Jewish brothers the sympathyof our Government and of our people for the just endeavorof resuscitating their beloved country in Palestine which willenable them to take their place in the future Society of Na-tions according to their numerous capacities and to their un-questioned right. We are sure that this will not only be totheir own interest, but at the same time to that of the wholeof humanity.

You know, dear Captain Albala, that there is no other na-tion in the world sympathizing with this plan more thanSerbia. Do we not shed bitter tears on the rivers of Babylonin sight of our beloved land, lost only a short time ago?How should we not participate in your clamors and sorrowslasting ages and generations, especially when our country-men of your origin and religion have fought for their Serbianfatherland as well as the best of our soldiers .

It will be a sad thing for us to see any of our Jewishfellow-citizens leaving us to return to their promised land,but we shall console ourselves in the hope that they will standas brothers and leave with us a good part of their hearts andthat they will be the strongest tie between free Israel andSerbia.

Believe me, dear Captain Albala,Very sincerely yours,

10VESNITCI!.

The American War Congress and ZionismFRANCE

The French Government made the following official dec-laration in favor of a Jewish State in Palestine in accord withthe Declaration to the same effect, made by the British Cabineton November 2, 1917 .

The Provisional Executive Committee for General ZionistAffairs has been authorized by M. Tardieu, the French HighCommissioner to the United States, to make public the fol-lowing communications bearing on this subject :

Message from Foreign Minister Pichon to M . Tardieu :Feb. 12, 1918 .

Having seen M. Sokolow (representative of the ZionistOrganizations), I authorized him to state that, as regards thequestion, our views were essentially the same as the viewsentertained by the British Government .(Naval Radio, from the Press Bureau of The Ministry of

Foreign Affairs)M. Sokolow was received today by M . Stephen Pichon .

M. Pichon was happy to reaffirm that the understanding iscomplete between the French and the British Governments,concerning the question of the Jewish establishment inPalestine.

ITALYThrough its Ambassador at the Court of St. James, the

Italian Government, on Feb . 25, 1918, officially signified itsapproval of the English and French Declarations in favor ofthe Zionist movement and of a Jewish National Homeland inPalestine . Mr. Nahum Sokolow, representative in London ofthe Zionist International Political Committee, received fromAmbassador Imperiali, the following formal statement ofItaly's attitude of these questions :

"On the instructions of His Excellency, Baron Sonnino,His Majesty's Minister for Foreign Affairs, I have the honourto inform you that H. M. Government is pleased to confirmthe declarations already made through their representatives inWashington, the Hague and Salonica, to the effect that theywill use their best endeavours to facilitate the establishment in

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The American War Congress and ZionismPalestine of a Jewish National Centre, it being understoodthat this shall not prejudice the legal or political status en-joyed by Jews in any other country ."

GREECEOn March 14th, 1918, M . Politis, the Greek Minister for

Foreign Affairs, stated in the Chamber of Deputies :"I have already had occasion in Salonika to express the

very sincere sympathy of the Liberal party and of all Hellenesfor the Jewish Nation, for twenty centuries the victim of mis-understandings and persecutions . I am glad to renew todaythe promise which I then gave that at the right moment theLiberal Government will put forth every effort to assist thenational task of the Jews in full accord with the great Alliesof Greece. Apart from the motives of sympathy which we havehad for the Jewish race, a new bond is now added . Amongother points in common, the Jewish race and the Greek racehave that of both belonging with those races which haveceased to be subjected to persecution. At this moment whenHellenism has been literally led to exhaustion by the barbariansof the East, I address with emotion to the Jewish race all mywishes for their establishment as a nation."

HOLLANDMr. Jacobus Kann, President of the Dutch Zionist Federa-

tion, was authorized by the Dutch Government to declarethat it is sympathetic toward Zionist aspirations .

SIAMThe Zionist Organization of America received the text

of a statement issued by the Siamese Government expressingits approval of the plan to establish in Palestine a NationalHomeland for the Jewish people . The statement was issued toMr. E. S. Kadoorie, one of the leading bankers of China andPresident of the Shanghai Zionist Association, by H . R. H .Prince Devawongse Varopakar, Siamese Minister for ForeignAffairs. It reads as follows :

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Foreign Office, Bangkok, August 22, 1918 .Dear Sir :

I have the honour to state that the Royal Siamese Govern-ment expresses its accord with the sympathetic position takenby its Allies with reference to the establishment of Palestineas a National Home for the Jewish people and, in co-operationwith the Allied Powers, will use its best endeavours to facili-tate the achievement of this object, it being clearly understoodthat nothing will be done that may prejudice the civil orreligious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Pales-tine.

I am, very truly yours,

DEVAWONGSE .

CHINAThe Zionist Organization of America received a cable-

gram from Mr. E. S. Kadoorie, President, and N . E. B. Ezra,Secretary of the Shanghai Zionist Association, informing itthat on Dec. 14, 1918, the Chinese Government had officiallyendorsed the project for establishing a Jewish Homeland inPalestine. The text of the Chinese endorsement is as follows :

The Chinese Government expresses its complete accordwith Great Britain's proposals for the restoration of Palestineas the National Home of the Jewish people, it being clearlyunderstood that nothing shall be done which may prejudicethe civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communi-ties in Palestine or the rights and political status enjoyed byJews in any other country, and will co-operate with her Alliesat the Peace Conference in the attaining of that object .

JAPANThe government of Japan authorized its Ambassador to

Great Britain to announce its approval of the project to estab-lish in Palestine a Jewish National Homeland in accordancewith the principles enunciated in the Balfour Declaration ofNovember 2, 1917.

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Members of CongressFrom Whom Statements Have Been Received

SENATORSALABAMA

LOUISIANAJohn H. Bankhead

Walter GuionJoseph E. Ransdell

MAINEBert M. FernaldFrederick Hale

ARIZONAMarcus A. Smith

ARKANSASWilliam F. KirbyJoseph T. Robinson

CALIFORNIAJames D. Phelan

COLORADOCharles S. Thomas

CONNECTICUTGeorge P. McLean

DELAWAREWillard Saulsbury

FLORIDADuncan U. Fletcher

ILLINOISJames Hamilton LewisLawrence Y. Sherman

INDIANAHarry Stewart NewJames E . Watson

IOWAAlbert B . CumminsWilliam S . Kenyon

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MARYLANDJoseph Irwin France

MASSACHUSETTSHenry Cabot LodgeJohn W. Weeks

MICHIGANCharles E . Townsend

MINNESOTAFrank B. KelloggKnute Nelson

MISSISSIPPIJames K. VardamanJohn Sharp Williams

MISSOURIJames A. ReedXenophon P. Wifley

MONTANAHenry L. Myers

NEBRASKAGilbert M. Hitchcock

KANSAS

NEVADACharles Curtis

Key Pittman


NEW HAMPSHIREIrving W. Drew

NEW JERSEYJoseph S. Frelinghuysen

NEW MEXICOAlbert B. Fall

NEW YORKWilliam M. CalderJames W. Wadsworth, Jr .

NORTH CAROLINALee Slater OvermanF. M. Simmons

NORTH DAKOTAPorter J. McCumber

OKLAHOMAThomas P. GoreRobert L. Owen

OREGONGeorge E. ChamberlainCharles L . McNary

PENNSYLVANIABoies Penrose

RHODE ISLANDLe Baron B. Colt

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SOUTH CAROLINAChristie Benet

SOUTH DAKOTAThomas Sterling

TENNESSEEKenneth D . McKellar

TEXASCharles A . CulbersonMorris Sheppard

UTAHWilliam H. KingReed Smoot

VERMONTW. P . Dillingham

WASHINGTONMiles PoindexterWesley L. Jones

WEST VIRGINIAHoward Sutherland

WISCONSINIrvine L. Lenroot

WYOMINGJohn B. KendrickFrancis E . Warren


ALABAMAWilliam B . BankheadJohn L. BurnettOscar L. GrayFred L. BlackmonS. Hubert DentJ. Thomas HeflinWilliam B. Oliver

ARKANSASThaddeus H . CarawayHenderson M . JacowayWilliam A. OldfieldJohn N. Tillman

CALIFORNIADenver S . ChurchCharles F . CurryEneris A. HayesWilliam KettnerClarence F . LeaHenry Z. OsborneJohn E. Raker

CONNECTICUTRichard P. FreemanJames P. GlynnAugustine LonerganSchuyler MerrittJohn Q. Tilson

COLORADOBenjamin C. HilliardEdward KeatingEdward T. TaylorCharles B. Timberlake

*Includes Delegates fromRico .

REPRESENTATIVES*

Hawaii, the Philippine Islands and Porto

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DELAWAREAlbert F. Polk

FLORIDAFrank ClarkWalter Kehoe

GEORGIACharles R. CrispWilliam W. LarsenFrank Park

HAWAIIJ. Kunio Kalanianaole

IDAHOBurton L. FrenchAddison T. Smith

ILLINOISEdward E. DenisonCharles E. FullerThomas GallagherWilliam J . GrahamClifford IrelandNiels JuulMedill McCormickWilliam B. McKinleyMartin B. MaddenWilliam E . MasonHenry T. RaineyJohn W. RaineyWilliam A. RodenbergAdolph J. SabathJohn A. SterlingLoren E. Wheeler


INDIANAWilliam E. CoxHenry A. BarnhartGeorge K . DentonLouis W. FairfieldMerrill MooresFred S. PurnellEverett SandersAlbert H. VestalWilliam R. Wood

IOWAWilliam R . GreenHarry E. HullHorace M. TownerFrank P. 'Woods

KANSASDaniel R. Anthony, Jr .W. A. AyresPhilip P. CampbellGuy T. HelveringEdward C. Little

KENTUCKYJames C. CantrillSwagar Sherley

LOUISIANAH. Garland DupreAlbert EstopinalWhitmell P. MartinJohn T. Watkins

MAINELouis B. GoodallWallace H. White, Jr.

MARYLANDCharles P. CoadyJesse D . PriceFrederick N. Zihlman

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MASSACHUSETTSFrederick W. DallingerAlvan T. FullerJames A. GallivanFrederick H . GillettWilliam S. GreeneWilfred W . LufkinRichard OlneyCalvin D . PaigeJohn J . RogersGeorge Holden TinkhamAllen T. TreadwayWilliam W. VenableJoseph Walsh

MICHIGANSamuel W. BeakesGilbert A . CurrieFrank E. DoremusJoseph W. FordneyEdward L. HamiltonPatrick H. KelleyCarl E. Mapes

MINNESOTAHarold KnutsonClarence B. MillerThomas D. SchallHalvor Steenerson

MISSISSIPPIThomas Upton Sisson

MISSOURICharles F. BookerWilliam P. BorlandChamp ClarkLeonidas C. DyerWalter L . HensleyMilton A. Romjue


MONTANAJeanette Rankin

NEBRASKAMoses J . KinkaidCharles C. LobeckCharles H. SloanDan V. Stephens

NEw HAMPSHIRESherman E. Burroughs

NEW JERSEYIsaac BachrachWilliam J. BrowningEdward W. GrayElijah C. HutchinsonFrederick R. LehibachJohn R. Ramsey

NEw YORKJohn F. CarewWalter M. ChandlerW. E. ClearyS. Wallace DempseyJerome F. DonovanBenjamin L. FairchildJoseph U. FlynnGeorge B. FrancisAnthony J. GriffinReuben L. HaskellFlorello H. La GuardiaGeorge R. LunnJames P. MaherLuther W. MottEdmund PlattDaniel J . RiordanFrederick W. RoweIsaac SiegelCharles Bennett SmithThomas F. SmithHomer P. Snyder

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NEw YORK-ContinuedChristopher D. SullivanOscar William SwiftWilliam F. WaldonCharles E. Ward

NORTH CAROLINAHannibal L. GodwinJohn H. SmallCharles W. StedmanZebulon Weaver

NORTH DAKOTAJ. M. BaerGeorge M. Young

OHIOClement BrumbaughHoratio C . ClaypoolRobert CrosserHenry I. EmersonSimeon D. FessWarren GardWilliam GordonDavid A. HollingsworthRoscoe C. McCullochIsaac R. SherwoodJohn S. SnookBenjamin F . Welty

OKLAHOMACharles D . CarterTom D. McKeownDick T. Morgan

OREGONWillis C . Hawley

PENNSYLVANIAEarl H. BeshlinGuy E. CampbellHenry A. ClarkPeter E. Costello


PENNSYLVANIA--ContinuedThomas S. CragoGeorge P. DarrowGeorge W . EdmondsJohn R. FarrB. K. FochtManlon M. GarlandGeorge Scott GrahamM. Clyde KellyEdgar R. KriessAaron S. KreiderJ. Hampton MooreJohn M. MorinEdward E. RobbinsJohn M. RoseBruce F. SterlingNathan N. StrongHenry W. TempleThomas W. TempletonWilliam S . VareHenry W. Watson

PHILIPPINE ISLANDSJaime C. De VeyraTeodoro R. Yangco

PORTO RICOFelix Cordova Davila

RHODE ISLANDGeorge F. O'ShaunessyWalter R . Stiness

SOUTH CAROLINASamuel J . NichollsWilliam F. Stevenson

SOUTH DAKOTACharles H. DillonHarry L. Gandy

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TENNESSEERichard W. AustinJoseph W. ByrnesFinis J. GarrettWilliam C. HoustonCordell HullLemuel P. Padgett

TExAsEugene BlackThomas L. BlantonJames P. BuchanonJoe H. EagleRufus HardyJeff. McLemoreJoseph J . MansfieldJames L. SlaydenJames C. Wilson

VERMONTFrank L. Greene

VIRGINIAEdward W. SaundersWalter A. Watson

WASHINGTONC. C. DillLindley H. HadleyAlbert JohnsonJohn F. MillerJohn A. Moon

WEST VIRGINIAEdward CooperAdam B. LittlepageStuart F . Reed


WISCONSINEdward E. BrowneWilliam J. CaryDavid G. ClassonHenry A. CooperJohn J. Esch

Senators61Representatives239

Total300

SUMMARY

Members of Congress from whom statements havebeen received :

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WISCONSIN--ContinuedJames A. FrearJohn M. NelsonEdward Voight

WYOMINGFrank W. Mondell

From 43 states.From 44 states and three

territories .

Statements ofUnited States Senators

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator John H. Bankhead,Of Alabama .

"I am in hearty accord with the suggestion to re-establish in Palestine a Jewish National Center . Themovement has assumed such proportions, the time appar-ently has appeared to put into execution the request de-sired of the leaders of the Jewish people for a numberof years to re-establish themselves with national head-quarters in Palestine.

"I am ready to co-operate in every way I can to thatend."

(Signed) "J. H . BANKHEAD."

By Senator Marcus A. Smith,Of Arizona.

"If it will be of help to the Jewish race, I am for Zion- Readyism, and stand ready and willing at all times to help the to Aid .

oppressed Jews or any other oppressed people, wheneveropportunity presents itself."

(Signed) "M. A . SMITH."

By Senator William F. Kirby,Of Arkansas.

"If it is the purpose to re-establish a nation by bring-ing together the oppressed peoples of this race from otherlands, its achievement would be a great blessing, but un-less from sentimental and religious motives, I discoverno especial reason for the location chosen . There are bet-ter lands and conditions for the development of a pros-perous and happy people in other governments longpassed the experimentation stage . The people of thisrace are desirable citizens in our own country, and whywaste time and effort in an attempt to re-establish themin a country in which we have no material interest andwhere their environment would not be comparable evenfor generations with the conditions they now enjoy?"

(Signed) "WM. F. KIRBY."

In HeartyAccord

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Blessing forOppressed-Other LandsBettor.


ZionismRomanticbut Prac-tical.

LiberalGentilesCo-operate.

By Senator Joseph T. Robinson,Of Arkansas.

"The proposed establishment of a Homeland inPalestine for persecuted Jews is both romantic and prac-ticable. Throughout many centuries the Jewish racehas experienced envy and suffered persecution in almostevery land. Now that a better day for humanity isdawning, it seems appropriate that this great peopleshould provide themselves with a home, should assemblein a country where their peculiar institutions maybecome dominant and where they may enjoy libertyunrestricted .

"Many liberal Gentiles heartily co-operate in thisgreat movement and express the hope that it maysucceed ."

(Signed) "Jos . T. ROBINSON."

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The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator James D . Phelan,Of California .

"From the character of the men supporting theZionist movement, I believe that it is entitled to the mostcareful consideration. These men, several of my per-sonal acquaintance, like Justice Brandeis, and DavidLubin, are men of vision and imagination . They wouldrestore the Jewish nation with its glorious traditions,literary, heroic and religious, and bring the Hebrewrace to a full realization of its power and possibilities .It would primarily be for the benefit of the Jews, lessfortunate than those who have now the opportunity todevelop themselves under American institutions .

"All over the world the Jews are scattered, and areunwelcome guests in many lands. Why should notthese people be brought under the sympathetic influ-ence of a restored and constructive Judaism?

"Men who are purely commercial in their senti- Notment, might regard such a plan as Utopian, but viewing Utopian-

this question historically and seeing the possibilities ofa nation re-established in Palestine, which is naturallythe most fitting and inspiring spot, consecrated in theJewish mind by the triumphs and tribulations of aproud people . Now, as a race, without a country, Iwould give them this word of encouragement from thepoet : `Dream bravely and well, and your dreams shallbe prophets.'

"I do not know in what manner the United States, Will Urgethrough the action of Congress, might best advance this Government

great idea and give it actuality, but I shall be pleased Support .

when the matter comes up for discussion, to urge in abroad and general way, co-operation with other nations .Yet I feel that our American institutions are so favor-able to men of every race and religion that we shouldbe careful not to disturb our own Jewish citizens, butregard the movement as a humanitarian one to bringequal opportunity to all those whom the United Statescan not shelter, and, at the same time, create a homefor a nationality that has proven itself indestructibleand worthy of a local habitation and a name ."

(Signed) "JAMES D. PHELAN."25

Advantagesof Restora-tion.

SympatheticEnvironmentfor Jews.


Acquisitionof Home-land Digni-fies Position.

Indepen-dence ofPalestine In-dispensableto Peace.

AmongWar'sCrowningBenefits.

By Senator Charles S. Thomas,Of Colorado .

"Having given the subject some consideration sincethe capture of Jerusalem by the British forces, I do nothesitate to give it my unqualified endorsement . I be-lieve, that the status of the Jewish people the world overwould be improved and their rights more fully recog-nized, if, like people of other races, they enjoyed a fixednational territory, possessing the attributes of a moderngovernment, and recognized as a member of the familyof nations . The representation which this conditionwould give through the interchange of envoys andministers to other countries, and the consciousness ofthe collective citizenship of the race, endowed with theattributes of a nation could not be otherwise than bene-ficial and elevating to the humblest member of the race .Such a movement would do for the Jews what therehabilitation of Greece has accomplished for the Greekswithin the short space of a century.

"Politically, the conversion of Palestine into anindependent nation, in view of the boundless andunscrupulous ambitions of Germany, would seem to bean indispensable element in assuring future peace to theworld . This obvious situation doubtless inspired theannouncement of the British Government, November 2nd,last, albeit, the sentimental side of the proposal may havebeen quite as persuasive. A compact, powerful andself-governing people in Asia Minor, thrust between theGerman-controlled Turkish dominions to the North andthe Suez Canal, with Arabia to the South would domuch to check the tide of aggression from that quarterand safeguard the great sea route through the SuezCanal to India .

"Aside from these considerations is the one whichpresumably appeals to the Jews more powerfully thanall of them . I refer to that national longing which therace has entertained ever since its dispersion by theRomans, which has survived persecution, adversity, andall of the misery of centuries . The re-establishment ofa Jewish Nation upon the site of its former home will

26

The American War Congress and Zionismsatisfy that aspiration and constitute a monument ofjustice-albeit a tardy one-to the heroic and indomit-able persistence of Judaism throughout the centuries .This, of itself, will, I think, guarantee the success ofthe enterprise, to which posterity will point as one ofthe crowning benefits of the world's greatest war .

"Although the foregoing statement would seem toconstitute a collective reply to your several queries, Iwill nevertheless also make these categorical answers :

"I approve the Declaration of our Allies upon theZionist question, for the reasons above outlined .

"I think that our own Government should officiallyexpress its accord with these declarations through anappropriate joint resolution by Congress to that effect .

"I think the effort of the Jewish people to establisha national home in Palestine should be encouraged atall times ."

(Signed) "C. S. THOMAS."

By Senator George P. McLean,Of Connecticut.

"I have read with interest, the views of SenatorsLodge* and Cummins** and heartily approve every-thing they say, and while I should be glad to see Con-gress act in the matter, it seems to me that the subjectis one upon which the Executive should take theinitiative."

(Signed) "GEo. P. McLEAN."

*See statement by Senator Lodge, page 43 .**See statement by Senator Cummins, page 33 .

27

ZionismShould beEncouraged .

Approves-Initiativefor Execu-tive .


World'sPaymentof Debt.

Revival ofHebrewCulture.

DeserveWar'sDemocraticFruits .

Action byUnitedStates .

SympathizeswithJewishHomeland.

By Senator Willard Saulsbury,Of Delaware.President Pro Tempore of the Senate of the United

States."The Declarations of Great Britain, France, Italy,

and our other Allies favoring the establishment inPalestine of a National Jewish Centre is a happy fulfill-ment of the prophesies of the Bible . These Pronounce-ments also mark, in a most fitting manner and at theopportune moment, the debt that the world is paying tothe Jews for their age-long persecutions . The freepeoples of the earth are now causing to bring aboutthe freedom of the Jewish nation .

"With this re-establishment in Palestine, the languageof the old Testament will again be revived and the greatHebrew culture and civilization will again find itsnatural channels for expression and development.

"The Jews have contributed in treasures and in bloodto every belligerent in this contest . They have sufferedin this struggle equally with any other participant .They thus justly deserve the democratic fruits of thiswar . Nothing would be as fitting and proper, and noother means would solve their problem more thoroughly,than their re-establishment as a nation on their ancientland. This national rebirth of the Jew strikes at thecore of the entire question.

"With the true spirit of rights of nations for self-assertion and self-determination, the United States,through the proper Government agency, may declareitself in favor of Zionism. I feel certain that this timeis not far distant."

(Signed) "WILLARD SAULSBURY ."

By Senator Duncan U. Fletcher,Of Florida.

"I cordially sympathize with your efforts to estab-lish a Jewish Homeland in Palestine in accordance withthe official declarations of England, France and Italy .

"I wish the friends of the undertaking every success ."(Signed) "DUNCAN U. FLETCHER."

28

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator James Hamilton Lewis,Of Illinois .

"My reason for approving the establishment of Zionas a national habitation of the Jewish people, is not toencourage them to leave the country of their residence,nor to insinuate to them that such is desirable from anypoint. It is, that as every people and every nationalityhas some place which they call the original home oftheir fathers, to deny to the Jewish people a similarprivilege would make a discrimination that could not bejustified .

"The establishment of Zion gives the Jewish peopletheir ancient home and is no more in its inception thanof a family purchasing the old house where their parentswere born or where they themselves were born . Iwholly approve of those Jews who wish to make thisestablishment at Zion, and I am gratified that my gov-ernment and the government of other parts of the worldwill recognize this movement as not a race movementnor a religious movement, but a national movement ofa people who along with other peoples of the worldhave a right to a motherland and a mother home.

"And about Palestine, more appropriate than in anypart of the world, is the natural and just location of theJewish people when they come to establish their homeof sentiment and their place of history ."

(Signed) "JAS. HAMILTON LEWIS."

29

Anti-Zlon-ism WouldBe Dis-crimination .

A Homelandan InherentRight .

PalestineMost Ap-propriate.


JewishHomelandPractical .

By Senator Lawrence Y. Sherman,Of Illinois .

"The Zionist undertaking for a national home forthe Jewish people in Palestine is a laudable one . Thedeclarations of the governments of Great Britain,France and Italy officially stated, favoring the rights ofsmaller nationalities, give fairly the substance of themovement. The Jewish State founded upon the prin-ciples of toleration and civil justice would enable thoseof the Hebrew race who have been the victims of oppres-sion in the Old World to form a country where thefuture peace league of nations could recognize andextend its protection . My hope would be that it wouldeventually become a place of refuge of the countriesthat persecute or discriminate against this race . Ibelieve a dawning of a better day with more universaltoleration and a keener sense of justice is at hand . AJewish homeland would be a practical step in relief ."

(Signed) "LAWRENCE Y. SHERMAN ."

30


By Senator Harry Stewart New,Of Indiana .

"Of course, I am heartily in favor of the BalfourDeclaration for a Jewish homeland in the Holy Land .I certainly do think that the Jews ought to have aNational Government of their own ; which appears to bethe ambitions of so many of your people. I am con-fident that if the Jews, as events appear to indicate,will form such a Government in the land of their fore-fathers, that it will, indeed, be a well conducted State .I think that it would be an inspiration to them, andwould also aid the Jewish people the world over bothphysically and spiritually. The formation of a JewishState would arouse and bring out in your people manydormant qualities ; it would prove an inspiration toyour race along lines which, among others, were deniedto them partly through prejudice . They would certainlybe quick to use altered conditions advantageously .

"Furthermore, I sincerely believe that the BritishDeclaration has put forward documentarily the factthat the problem of the Jewish State is to be includedas one of the aims of the War . Let me emphasize thatI do think that the Jews ought to be among the smallnations, the assurance of whose safety is one of themain purposes of the War. I am convinced in my beliefthat all peoples should be given an opportunity to gov-ern themselves, provided they are capable of self,government, and no one would question the ability ofthe Jewish people to govern themselves . History hasshown this quality in the Jews, and all of us know itwell, directly and indirectly .

"I do not believe it at all improbable that, shouldconditions warrant, America may be induced to becomethe protectorate and be the guarantor for the JewishState, at least during the first period . This may comeabout through international agreement, for the benefitand protection of every one concerned . Some suchscheme would insure absolute justice to all ."

(Signed) "HARRY S. NEW."

ShouldInspireAll Jews.

War Foughtfor SmallNations .

AmericanProtectorateof JewishState.


In Accordwith Dec-larations.

Place LandunderJewish Rule.

EqualRightsto All .

FavorsAction byCongress .

By Senator James E. Watson,Of Indiana.

"As far as I am concerned, I find myself in entireaccord with the declarations of England, France andItaly on the Zionist proposition. I am most decidedlyof the opinion that Palestine, and in fact all the placesmade holy by the presence of Jesus of Nazareth and,therefore, sacred to the world, should be forever removedfrom Turkish control .

"In my judgment, the best way to accomplish thisdesired result, is to place the entire country under therule of the Jews . The sacred traditions that clusteraround Jerusalem are of supreme interest to civiliza-tion, but naturally they are of paramount importanceto the Jews of the world, because Jerusalem is the city ofthe Jews, and they naturally feel as if they should beits guardians and likewise the keepers and rulers of allthe holy places of ancient Palestine .

"I take it for granted, of course, that such a rule bysuch a people would not in anywise prejudice eitherthe civil or religious rights of non-Jewish people, forthe Jews are lovers of liberty and, having been so merci-lessly persecuted by many of the nations of the world,would naturally shrink from pursuing any such coursetoward any other people .

"I take it for granted that the Jewish people of thecountry are in favor of this movement and personally,I know of no reason why a resolution should not bepassed in Congress in favor of the movement you havein contemplation ."

(Signed) "JAMES E. WATSON."

32

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator Albert B . Cummins,Of Iowa .

"With the spirit of the British statement I am in in Sym-entire sympathy. My reason for looking upon the sub- Declaration.ject from a different angle is based partially upon thevagueness of the British Declaration . I have beenunable to understand fully the meaning of the wordsà National Home,' as used in the British expression .If the purpose is simply to promote a settlement inPalestine of men and women of the Jewish race, withoutregard to the government under which they shall live,the proposal, while it may be a very worthy one, falls farshort of my conception of the world-wide movement .

"If it be the desire of the Jewish people themselves, For lnde-I am in favor of lending our national influence toward Pendent

Jewishthe establishment in Palestine of a government ; that is State.to say, an independent state, sustained and controlledby men and women of that blood. It was with thisthought in my mind that I asked you for informationrespecting the capacity of the territory called Palestineto support a population large enough to give dignityand permanence to a sovereignty of that character .

"The Jewish people have had a career so unique Jews Fullyand wonderful in every way that they richly deserve Deserve It .

the assistance of the civilized world in carrying forwardsuch an experiment. Through the chaos of the earlierages, and through all the injustice of modern times,they have persisted, and demonstrated in the moststriking manner the virility of the race. They ought tohave all the opportunity which the great powers of theearth can extend to them, to show their fitness for self-government.

"You will observe that my view is more compre- Actionyhensive than a mere 'National Home' although it may wOur Go-ent.

well be that Mr . Balfour, the British Secretary of Statefor Foreign Affairs, employed these words in thebroader sense . If he did, I wholly approve of hisDeclaration, and am earnestly in favor of a like state-ment on the part of the Government of the UnitedStates. If he did not, I am in favor of action by our

33


Same RightAs OtherRaces .

FavorsJewish .Homeland.

Entitled toSelf-Govern-ing State.

Government that will express in proper form the senti-ments I have so briefly outlined .

"I want to see in the world, as the outcome of thewar in which we are engaged, a Jewish State with thesame right of existence and development as it is hopedwill be given to other races which desire to hold to-gether and live together for their mutual happiness,safety and growth ."

(Signed) "ALBERT B. CUMMINS."

By Senator William S. Kenyon,Of Iowa.

"I am earnestly in favor of this plan for a Jewishhomeland in Palestine, and certainly trust that this de-sired consummation may come out of this war."

(Signed) "W. S . KENYON."

By Senator Charles Curtis,Of Kansas .

"I heartily agree to and approve of the Declarationsof England, France and Italy in regard to a Jewishhomeland in Palestine . I hope in due time the UnitedStates will take a similar stand on this question . Theselong oppressed people should be given an opportunityof working out and determining their own future in ahomeland of their own."

(Signed) "CHARLES CURTIS ."

34

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator Walter Guion,Of Louisiana.

"Many centuries ago Cyrus, King of Persia, issueda proclamation permitting the return of the Jews toPalestine, there to re-establish their old National Home .Last year the Government of Great Britain and all ofthose associated as allies, with her, issued similarproclamations which were well received throughout theuniverse. Historically, therefore, these Zionist Declara-tions may well be regarded as among the positive actsof the War and, doubtless, will be so pronounced byfuture generations .

"I do not hesitate to declare that I am heartily inaccord with these Declarations of our Allies for a Jew-ish State in Palestine, for it may well be said of theJews that one of their strongest traits is this great Na-tional ambition.

"This worthy movement includes among its sup-porters, so many of our best citizens that it speaks instrong and unequivocal terms for its thorough Amer-icanism .

"We have before us, in our everyday life, constantevidence of the many achievements of the Jewish racein every line of human endeavor, and it is not too muchto expect, that with all of their forceful characteristicsbrought into play, re-established Israel will become amodel Nation ."

(Signed) "WALTER GUION."

35

Cyrus Proc-lamationand BritishDeclaration .

NationalAmbitionAdmirable.

ThoroughAmerican-ism ofMovement.

To BecomeModelNation .


Will Votefor Resolu-tion.

JewishRepublicunderProtectorate.

LoyalCitizens-Proud ofHeritage.

JewishContributionto World .

By Senator Joseph E. Ransdell,Of Louisiana.

"I am heartily in favor of the official declarations ofEngland, France and Italy on the Zionist question, andshall gladly vote for an appropriate resolution by Con-gress favoring the establishment of a Jewish NationalCentre in Palestine, provided ample guarantees are fur-nished for protecting in all civil and religious rights theFellahin who have been its peasant farmers for centuries,and the many Christians who have lived there forgenerations .

"In this period of new nations when the world isbeing thrilled by the death agonies of old Empires andthe birth of strong young democracies, it seems pecu-liarly appropriate that a Jewish Republic should befounded in Palestine under the aegis of some powerfulcountry which will do for it what the United States isdoing so nobly for Cuba .

"No race on earth except the Jews . has maintainedfor two thousand years, while scattered over the faceof the globe, its separate and distinct language, na-tionality and religion . All others have blended sothoroughly with the people among whom they livedthat in three or four generations their racial character-istics and national traits were lost . The Jew of today,though for the past two hundred years a citizen of Italy,France, Great Britain, or the United States, and loyal inevery fibre of his being to the land of his birth, is never-theless proud to be known and recognized as a Jew. Hetraces his ancestry in direct line for five thousand years,and numbers among his forbears kings, warriors, law-makers, historians, orators, poets and leaders in every-thing great and noble who lived when the founders ofraces who now rule the world were untaught savages.

"Palestine was the home of the Jews-indeed theirbirthplace, and only real home-for three thousand yearsbefore the Christian Era, and from that centre emanatedlaws, philosophies, and moral teachings that greatlybenefitted mankind. Then came a long period of trial,suffering and wandering in many lands, so much so, that

36

The American War Congress and ZionismJewish names appear in the annals of all countries, andoften receive the most honorable mention . Palestine wasno longer occupied and ruled by Jews ; strangers trodthe scenes and tilled the soil so long and honorably heldby them ; and at this moment there are doubtless moreChristians and Moslems in the Holy Land than Jews,while in several other countries there are many moreJews than in Palestine .

"Throughout all these ages and vicissitudes, Jewshave hoped and dreamed of returning to the PromisedLand, making it flow as of old with milk and honey,setting up a government of, by and for Jews, restoring theHebrew language, and again taking the place among Na-tions so long held by them . It is a laudable, proper am-bition which should be assisted by the freedom lovingpeople of our Republic in every way .

"The establishment of such a Jewish state in Palestineas we would have every reason to expect from a peopleso frugal, persistent, energetic, wise, and forceful as theJews, would be a great boon to that part of the world .It would aid materially in restoring Syria and Mesopo-tamia to their former commanding positions as populous,wealthy, progressive countries, and be a strong bulwarkagainst the insidious depredations of the Turk . I amfirmly convinced that, entirely aside from sentimentsof justice and sympathy for Jews, it would be extremelywise and statesmanlike to establish and support, until itcould stand alone, a Jewish Republic in Palestine ."

(Signed) "Jos. E . RANSDELL."

37

ZionismLaudableAmbition-DeservesAssistance.

Statesman-like Disposi-tion ofPalestine.


ApprovesDeclaration.

RecognizesJewishClaim .

Justice andWorld'sSacredDuty.

By Senator Bert M . Fernald,Of Maine.

"I heartily approve the recent Declarations made byEngland, France and Italy relative to the Zionistquestion .

"At this time, when our great Nation and its Alliesare prosecuting a war professedly for the freedom ofoppressed nationalities, it seems to me peculiarly fittingand proper to recognize the claim of the Jewish peoplesto be permitted to establish a permanent home in Pales-tine, where in the future they may maintain their racialintegrity.

"Jerusalem is the logical city for the Jews ; and Ishould be glad to see the United States take action in linewith the British Declaration ."

(Signed) "BERT W. FERNALD."

By Senator Frederick Hale,Of Maine.

"I thoroughly approve of the action of our Allies onthe Zionist question . The restoration to the Jews of theirold home land is an act of justice that the world owesto them . It is very unfortunate that this act has beendelayed for so many centuries, in which the Jewish peoplehave endured untold suffering . By returning Palestineto the Jews, the Allied Powers are carrying out a sacredduty. This war is bound to cause many changes, andpre-eminent among these changes will be the one in thestatus of the Jewish people . I shall be glad to be ofany service in helping this just cause ."

(Signed) "FREDERICK HALE ."

38

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator Joseph Irwin France,Of Maryland.

"I am very much interested in the Zionist movementand I will look forward with hope and confidence to itssuccess. The re-establishment of a Jewish Homeland inPalestine would be hailed by men of progressive thoughtas a great . event in the history of Civilization . It is acause for which the Jewish peoples in every land maywork with enthusiastic devotion without any sacrifice oftheir love and loyalty for the country of which they havebecome citizens .

"My views upon this subject are more fully expressedin a brief address which I made at a Zionist meeting inBaltimore sometime since, from which you may preferto take extracts and a copy of which is enclosed .

"I wish you every success as you continue your workfor the realization of your great ideal ."

(Signed) "JOSEPH I. FRANCE ."

39

ZionistsLoyalCitizens.


Preservationof JewishIdeals.

World'sHeritagefromAncientState.

CulturalRevival .

The speech of Senator France, delivered on February18, 1917, follows :

"A JEWISH RE-DEDICATION ."Through all the centuries from the dawn of civiliza-

tion the Hebrew people have lived on ; they have wit-nessed the birth, the rise and the fall of many empires,and the extinction of many races of men ; they have livedon, preserved by a special providence and through allthe years of their remarkable history, priceless gifts,matchless contributions and new spiritual revelationshave been made, by them, and through them, to humanity ;and to the civilization of the world its indispensablegifts .

"It is possible to imagine this world without the con-tributions which some nations have made to history, butI cannot conceive of this world as it would have beenwithout Palestine, and without that great spiritual lightwith which the whole world has been illumined ; a lightwhich has come through the genius and mission of theHebrew people.

"I cannot conceive of a world without the sacredbooks with their inspiring national and spiritual history .I cannot imagine a world without the law and the greatwords of the Hebrew prophets, which have come ringingwith authority down through all the centuries as trueand as potent today as they were when spoken. Whatwould the world be without the Psalms, sung first inPalestine and then in ever-widening circles with the pas-sage of the centuries, by an ever-swelling chorus joinednow by men of every land and tribe, a chorus which shallyet rise higher, ascending as a mighty paean of praisewhen all the peoples of the earth shall unite to sing theinfinite Fatherhood of God and the unlimited brother-hood of man .

"I do not feel that I am competent to discuss all ofthe phases of the Zionist question . Some hold, I know,that this great Zionist movement must lose some of itssignificance with the inevitable decline of the anti-Semitic sentiments and feelings ; other contend that the

40

The American War Congress and Zionismgreat works of the Jews for the world must be donewithin the countries of which they are now such animportant and integral part . I have no doubt myselfthat anti-Semitic feelings and sentiments must declineand ultimately disappear completely with the progressof civilization . I am convinced also that it would be anirreparable loss to the world to have any large propor-tion of your people leave their present homes, in theenlightened countries, to take up residences in Palestine,and yet I do believe the Zionist movement to be some-thing far more significant than a mere effort to establisha refuge in Palestine for the oppressed Jews of Russiaand of Southern Europe, desirable and important as sucha movement as that, in itself, would be . I believe thatits most thoughtful advocates see in this movement notonly the securing of a national home, the reclamation ofPalestine, the awakening of an interest in the revival ofJewish agriculture, language, literature and art, but,more than all, the rededication of the Jewish peoplethemselves to the great spiritual conceptions and ideals ofthe past, to that lofty spiritual altruism which is the veryessence of their religion .

"We all stand in danger, particularly in this country,with our great prosperity, of sinking into materialism .Every man wants to play a man's part, to heroicallymeet and overcome the problems and difficulties of dailylife, and he naturally desires those material things whichare not only enjoyable in themselves, but which are alsothe outward symbols of success and victory. Our great-est menace today is that materialism and paganism,which have ever been in the past so destructive to na-tional life. We must keep our spiritual eyes open,remembering ever that `where there is no vision thepeople perish .' Spiritual vision is more important thanmaterial possession .

"Our great Republic needs the very best that is inevery Jewish citizen ; his patriotism, his great practicalability, his spiritual insight and this most significantZionist movement, which cannot succeed without a re-newed devotion on your part to your best traditions and

41

SpiritualRededica-tion .

Quickeningof SpiritWill BenefitAmerica .


PalestineSpiritualReservoir.

FromJehudaHalovi .

ideals, should be a means toward that re-awakened andquickened spirituality of which all of us in America standin such great need .

"Palestine was a great spiritual reservoir from whichpure, sweet, healing, cooling streams were poured outover the barren, fevered lands desolate under the blight-ing touch of polytheism, paganism, and materialism ; andthose lands purified and fructified by the life-givingstreams brought forth justice, liberty, civilization andall the blessed fruits of the spirit . May that great spirit-ual reservoir be rebuilded not only upon the beautifulhills and in the pleasant valleys of Palestine, but in everyland where the children of Israel are gathered together .

"I admire that magnificent and immortal ode in whichyour great physician, poet and modern Psalmist, JehudaHalevi, sang of Zion :

"'Oh, who will lead me onTo seek the posts where, in far distant years,

The angels in their glory dawned uponThy messengers and seers?'

"But the longing of his heart for the physical andtemporal restoration of Zion did not prevent his realiza-tion that in a great true sense Zion is not a place but aspirit, and he wrote that beautiful poem-prayer whichwe all would do well to make our own .

" Òh! would that I might beA servant unto Thee,Thou God, by all adored.Then, though by friends outcast,Thy hand would hold me fast,And draw me near to Thee, my King and Lord ."'

42

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator Henry Cabot Lodge,Of Massachusetts .

"I entirely approve the declarations of England,France and Italy on the Zionist question . I favor thedeclarations because it seems to me that Palestine andthe Holy Places of both the Christian and Jewish relig-ions should be forever removed from Turkish control .Jerusalem is the city of the Jews and they would be thenatural guardians of the city and of the Holy Places,-it being of course understood, as Mr . Balfour says, thatnothing would be done which would prejudice the civiland religious rights of non-Jewish people in Palestine,which I am sure would be protected and conserved inevery way by the Zionists .

"I should be glad to see action by the United StatesGovernment in line with the British Declaration . Thequestion is one upon which action must be looked forfirst from the Executive, under our system of Govern-ment ; but personally I should favor the adoption of anappropriate resolution by Congress in favor of the estab-lishment in Palestine of a Jewish National Centre .

"I feel that the effort of the Jewish people to estab-lish a National Home in Palestine is not only naturalbut in all ways to be desired ."

(Signed) "HENRY C. LODGE."

43

JewsNaturalPalestineGuardians.

FavorsAction byUnitedStates.

ZionismNatural andDesirable.


PlacePalestineunderZionistProtection .

RestorePalestine toJews .

By Senator John W. Weeks,Of Massachusetts .

"If I understand correctly the declaration of England,France, and Italy, it has my entire approval . It seemsto me that the holy places of the Jewish religion shouldbe removed from Turkish control. That is an anomalouscondition which should not be allowed to continue, andI should be glad to see action taken by our Governmentin approval of the policy of placing Palestine under theprotection of the Zionists . Of course, you understandthat the initiative in such matters must come from theExecutive branch of our Government, but in case anylegislative action is required it will have my heartysupport."

(Signed) "JOHN W. WEEKS ."

By Senator Charles E. Townsend,Of Michigan.

"From the newspaper reports of the Zionist move-ment having for its object the establishment in Palestineof a national home for the Jewish people, I find myselfin hearty sympathy with the proposition. I am notprepared to state what action, if any, the American Con-gress should take in reference to the matter. I have feltthat it was unwise for the United States to take anyofficial action during the pendency of the war on thequestion of disposition of foreign countries or peoples .It probably will be necessary to consider this question atthe international peace table. I venture the hope, how-ever, that it will be found advisable and wise to divest theTurk from all control over the historic and revered Judeaincluding Constantinople and I can think of nothing moreappropriate than the restoration of this country to itsancient inhabitants-the Jews. I hope the movement willsucceed."

(Signed) "CHAS. E. TOWNSEND ."

44


By Senator Frank B . Kellogg,Of Minnesota."I am in entire sympathy with the purposes of theZionist movement and with the view of the British Gov-ernment, as expressed by Mr . Balfour and, as I under-stand, endorsed by the French and Italian Governments,and by President Wilson. I approve it, not only as amovement looking to the settlement of Palestine by theJews, but in the end when such settlement shall havereached a point to justify it, the establishment of anautonomous government . This government, of course,should protect the civil and religious rights of all non-Jewish inhabitants."I understand that Jewish colonization has alreadyprogressed to a point where its success is demonstrated .That for the first time in centuries the Hebrew languageis being taught and is the medium of intercourse by thesepeople . It is a remarkable tribute to this ancient race,whose civilization was old before Rome dominated theWestern world, that through more than twenty centuriesthey have been able to preserve their virility, their cultureand their religious and racial characteristics ."We all know in the struggle for position amid con-tending races of the world, the advantage of having acountry one can call his own, and this advantage is im-measurably heightened by the fact that this country isbeing established in the ancient seat of the race ."I do not, of course, expect that large numbers ofJews will leave this country, where they have all theadvantages of our enlightened institutions, to live inPalestine, but I believe that it will satisfy a longing thathas never ceased to exist through their struggle duringall these centuries ." (Signed) "FRANK B . KELLOGG ."

45

AutonomousGovernmentin Palestine.

Nationaland CulturalRevivalCreditable.

Advantageof Possess-ing Home-land .

A Longingof Centuries .

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator Knute Nelson,Of Minnesota .

Sentiment

"I can very well understand why, as a matter of sen-Command- timent, the Jews would like to settle, reclaim, and re-able-LandUnfertile. organize Palestine. This sentiment is highly to be com-

mended, but my understanding is that Palestine is, tosome extent, a semi-arid country, hilly and somewhatbarren, and not what we would call here in America agood agricultural country . For that reason, it seems tome that it is not a good plan to get the poor people ofJewish descent, who are anxious to make their livingby farming, to go to that country.

Favor

"There are many places here in America that wouldJewishRealization be better for farms and homes. But, however this may

be, I shall certainly be glad to see the Jewish peopleoccupy and control Palestine .

"Yours very truly,(Signed) "KNUTE NELSON ."

46

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator James K. Vardaman,Of Mississippi .

"I can scarcely conceive of an American imbuedwith the spirit of freedom and informed of the historyof the Jewish people, who could fail to approve mostheartily the sentiment expressed by the Honorable ArthurJ. Balfour, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs of theBritish Government, with reference to the establishmentin Palestine of a National Home for the Jewish people .

"That the Government of the United States will useits best endeavors to facilitate and encourage that achieve-ment, I have not the least doubt. That the race that gavethe world The Great Exemplar of the civilized nationsand which has contributed so much in other ways to themoral and material upbuilding of mankind is entitledto this National Home, protected in the enjoyment ofabsolute autonomy, unproscribed and uninterfered with,is a matter of common justice.

"I can imagine the Republic of Palestine as being alamp set upon a hill to guide and encourage the nationsof the earth that are now struggling for independence .In spite of the prejudices, hatred and persecution whichthe Jews as a race have suffered in all ages, that race hasbeen a positive help and benefit to the peoples and gov-ernments that persecuted them .

"The Jews as a people are wise, conservative, patrioticand provident. I am, therefore, in most hearty accordwith the sentiment expressed by Mr . Balfour and I trustthat the Zionist movement may effectuate in the gratifi-cation of the aspirations of the brave men and womenwho have conceived and are pushing forward this greatenterprise.

"I thank you for the opportunity to express my viewson the subject ."

(Signed) "JAS. K. VARDAMAN ."

All Ameri-cans ShouldApprove.

Jews En-titled toHomeland .

Would En-courageOppressedNations .

In HeartyAccordwithZionism.


Epoch inHistory ofCivilization .

Jewish Re-establish-ment toBenefitHumanity.

By Senator John Sharp Williams,Of Mississippi .

"I am in absolute sympathy with the `Jewry,' withthe Zionists, and with the British Government, in theannouncement of its policy in Palestine . I think it allconstitutes an epoch in the history of the `Chosen Race,'and, still more than that, it constitutes an epoch in thehistory of civilization and the right of nationalities toself-determination. "

(Signed) "JOHN SHARP WILLIAMS."

By Senator James A . Reed,Of Missouri .

"I believe it would make for the peace of the worldand the welfare of humanity if a great nation composedof Jewish people would be established where the Jewishrace so long maintained the highest type of civilizationthen known to the world. The influence of such a nationmight do much toward regenerating what may almost becalled a lost continent in Asia ."

(Signed) "JAS. A. REED."

48

- - . .,, . ., „ - .. W . - „ ... E,

By Senator Xenophon P. Wilfley,Of Missouri.

"In regard to the Jewish land in Palestine and theDeclarations of England, France, and Italy with refer-ence thereto, it seems to me to open up a new phase onthe Jewish question . It seems to me as though Pales-tine should be made a national center or a national homefor the Jewish people. They have always stood forright, justice and religion . I feel confident that theywill continue to stand for the same ideals in their Home-land.

"The Jewish people have been misunderstood sooften that I believe the time has come to set them arightby making them the guardians of Palestine without in anyway prejudicing the non-Jewish people who may livethere. I have no doubt the rights of these people wouldbe religiously observed by the Zionists . Re-establishmentof a Jewish Homeland in Palestine would tend to settlemany vexing problems and it seems to me the naturaland logical thing to do."

(Signed) "XENOPHON P. WILFLEY ."

By Senator Henry L. Myers,Of Montana.

"I approve of the British Declaration in favor of aJewish Homeland in Palestine . I do so because I believeit right and just, based on sound reasons and for thebenefit of a people who have done a great deal for theworld.

"Regarding Zionism generally, it is, of course, en-tirely of concern to the Jews, and I believe in extendingthem every legitimate facility in realizing it ."

(Signed) "H. L. MYERS ."

49

PalestineNationalJewishCenter.

JewsLogicalGuardiansof Palestine .

ApprovesDeclarationas Just andSound.

Let AllFacilitateRealization.


Settle VexedJewishQuestion .

Duty ofAmericanJews toHelp .

Sympatheticand WillAssist.

By Senator Gilbert M. Hitchcock,Of Nebraska .

"The British Declaration in favor of a Jewish Statein the Holy Land seems to me a logical and generousstatement of the British position . It affords to the Jewishpeople an opportunity of settling one of the vexed Jewishquestions, and guarantees them protection in their cher-ished desire to return to Palestine . I doubt whether manyAmerican Jews will ever avail themselves of the offer, be-cause their opportunities are better in the United Statesthan they would be in Palestine or anywhere else that Iknow of. For purely sentimental reasons, Jews who havefought the battle of life and desire to close their days ina reconstructed Holy Land may be induced to go evenfrom America, but for the most part it will only be theoppressed Jews of countries where their lot is a hard onethat will join in the Zionist movement to any great extent .Fortunate Jews of America can help them and ought to .The idea of Zionism is a big one and appeals to the imag-ination. I have no idea that it will be abandoned untilit has been fairly tried ."

(Signed) "G . M. HITCHCOCK."

By Senator Key Pittman,Of Nevada .

"I am in thorough accord with the deep and sympa-thetic interest of the President of the United States inthe welfare of the Jewish nation as expressed in his letteron Zionism ; and as a member of the United States Senate,I will give every effort to put into effect the plan nowsuggested on this question or any other plan that may beformulated by the President ."

(Signed) "KEY PITTMAN ."

so

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator Irving W. Drew,Of New Hampshire .

"I agree very fully with the statements made by Sen-ator Lodge and others.* I think there ought to be a Jew-ish Home in Palestine, in accordance with the officialDeclaration of President Wilson and our Allies ."

(Signed) "IRVING W. DREW ."

By Senator Joseph S . Frelinghuysen,Of New Jersey .

"I am sorry that I have not had an opportunity togive the question of Zionism very much study and atten-tion. Of course I could not help becoming acquaintedwith it to some degree, especially in the last year or sowhen it has gained such prominence in non-Jewishcircles.

"I entirely approve the announcement of Secretary ApprovesBalfour, and gladly support the present British policy Announce-on this question, or any policy it may adopt in the near ment.future, in conjunction with our own country, and theother nations of the earth, now in alliance with us ; suchpolicy to be in fulfillment of the requirements of inter-national diplomacy and in compliance with the aspira-tions of the Jewish race .

"From what I have said above you can easily see that Favors

I would be heartily in favor of a resolution which would Congres s .embody the sentiments that I have just expressed . Ishould be very pleased to feel that my aid would provebeneficial to the very worthy cause which the Jews havein view."

(Signed) "J. S . FRELINGHUYSEN."

* See statement by Senator Lodge, page 43 .

51

WillSupportJewishHome.


FavorsAction byUnitedStates.WillSupportResolutionby Congress .

To AssistPalestineEstablish-ment.

MaintainReligiousFreedom inDiaspora.

By Senator Albert B. Fall,Of New Mexico .

"I am cordially in sympathy with the British Declara-tion with reference to Palestine . Of course, this state-ment applies equally to the declarations of France andItaly.

"I would favor action by the United States Govern-ment along lines of the other declarations referred to,either at present, or at any time in the future .

"I will favor the adoption of proper resolutions byCongress in favor of the establishment of a Jewish Na-tional center in Palestine .

"I am in sympathy with any action which the Jewishpeople desire to take, or have taken, to establish a nationalhome in Palestine.

"I may say frankly that I regard the great majorityof Jews in the United States as loyal American citizens .I expect to see a great majority remain American citizens .To such of the Jews as may desire to establish actualresidence in Palestine, I am willing to extend any assist-ance possible .

"With respect to the Jews who I believe will con-tinue to reside in the United States, I, of course, recognizenot only their right, but the propriety of their action inmaintaining their religious beliefs and observances, asthe same right is recognized to all other people or mem-bers of all other denominations or sects . Such mainten-ance of religious beliefs or observances of same willnever, of course, conflict with the patriotic duty of Amer-ican citizens ."

(Signed) "ALBERT B. FALL."

52


By Senator William M. Calder,Of New York .

"Yes, I have heard of the British Declaration andwould give it my utmost support, especially since it hasbeen adopted practically by all of our Allies . To me itis a very simple proposition-if the Jews want a home-land in Palestine, and if it is possible to accomplish thatend, as all indications seem to warrant, why not let themhave it? More than that : Why not aid them in thissincere and just demand or desire?

"Let me say to you that I do not, of course, considerthis Zionist restoration to be of the same character asthe Belgian restoration. It is somewhat difficult for thecasual observer to think of the Jews now as a nation, inthe same sense as we think of the Belgians . The Jewsare now lacking certain factors that go to make up anation and national life, and if I understand it correctly,this is the reason for Zionism, with some people. Cer-tainly this is why I would support the Declaration for theJewish homeland as proclaimed by our Allies. Therealization of this promise would make the national lifeof the Jews complete .

"I appreciate that at the present moment the Jewsform only a minority of the Palestine population, but Iknow that these Jews have built up the colonies of theHoly Land and form the weightier part of the inhab-itants, in many respects . I, for one, am ready to leave therestoration and upbuilding of Palestine to Jewish brainsand energy. It would be only a short duration of time,before the Jews would form the majority of the popu-lation in the Holy Land, from every viewpoint . Yourpeople may depend upon my aid toward causing the real-ization of the hope for Jewish restoration whenever theopportunity will be offered to me ."

(Signed) "WILLIAM M. CALDER."

53

ZionistsEntitled toSupport.

Jewish andBelgianRestoration.

JewishTask toRebuild.


Project De-serves Uni-versalSupport .

ZionistRealizationMereJustice .

AccordswithWilson'sPrinciples .

By Senator James W . Wadsworth, Jr.,Of New York.

"It appears to me that from every viewpoint the re-establishment of the Jewish Homeland in Palestine iscertainly a very worthy project which should have thesupport of every nation and individual no matter whattheir economic, political, social, or religious creed be .I am certainly glad of the fact that Great Britain, one ofthe great democratic powers of the world, came out forthis Zionist principle at the most opportune time . Ishould have been even more glad if our own country hadbeen the first to declare itself for the principles as laiddown by the Balfour statement . However, due to certainrelative international complications, as you can easilyunderstand, America could not have proclaimed officiallyits support of the Jewish Home Land in Palestine, at thetime when Great Britain deemed it proper to do so . Butthis should not deter any one in this country from givinghis support to this noble and lofty ideal of your people.

"It is merely a case of common and accepted justiceon the part of all of us to see that this project of the re-establishment of your glory of old be realized to its full-est extent and at the earliest possible moment. TheJewish nation ought to be protected in its newly-plannedhomeland in every possible way, its individual membersscattered all over the world are bound to gain absoluteequality and freedom in every land where they may befound . It certainly is logical to assume that this veryestablishment of your new national life and governmentwill aid your brethren to a great degree in their land .

"When I think of the destiny to be decided at the endof this war, of the various small nationalities, a destinywhich we hope will be decided according to their ownwishes and aspirations, I cannot for one moment excludethe Hebrews from that worthy group of smaller nationsthat have given their all in this war along with the otherpowers of the world. President Wilson's principles ofdemocracy will be the savior of these nationalitiesamong whom your people play a very prominent part .I, on my part, will do everything in my power to aidthis cause in my own way whenever I shall be calledupon to do so. Your cause is the cause of all humanity ."

(Signed) "J. W. WADSWORTH, JR ."54

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator Lee Slater Overman,Of North Carolina.

"I would be very glad to see Palestine restored to theJews, its original owners, in accordance with the strongyearnings of so many Jews and non-Jews . I see everypossible reason to give my approval and support to theBritish Declaration . I hope that this Declaration will berealized and come true as soon as this Great War isover .

"The formation of a Jewish Republic, in the HolyLand, populated by those of your brethren who wouldchoose to make it their home, will, to my mind, be an-other strong link in the chain of small nations, who havea right-and a duty-to determine their own fate andfuture, without any foreign interference . The UnitedStates would indeed welcome this just step .

"Why am I so strongly for the British Declarationand for the Palestine Jewish Restoration? Let me men-tion one reason . I favor it because, as I gather fromvarious sources, very many Jews desire it . This is iuf-cient ground for me, and it ought to be for every non-biased thinking man . I hardly need to add that theJewish State in Palestine would prosper and prove bene-ficial even to those living beyond its territorial limits .

"This, I deem, is the opinion of the citizens of thiscountry, of every creed and denomination . The patriot-ism of the American Jews cannot be questioned in theremotest degree, because of their Zionistic tendencies,any more than the loyalty of the Belgians here can bequestioned because of their hope for the restoration oftheir land to its rightful owners ."

(Signed) "LEE S. OVERMAN ."

55

WishesPalestineRestoredto Jews.

Jewish Dutyto Deter-mine Future .

State WillBenefitAll Jews.

Zionism andPatriotismCompatible.


Is Pledgedby Allies.

ChristianWorldApproves.

DelayedJusticeAssured-Zionism aReality .

By Senator Porter J . McCumber,Of North Dakota.

"In the midst of this world carnage, a great Nation,while bearing the brunt of that most desperate conflictof the ages, has written in letters of fire across the blackclouds of battle that Israel shall be returned to herancient heritage. This purpose is now included amongthe many noble purposes to which the Allies striving inconcert are pledged . So far it is a declaration of pur-pose only. Its consummation depends upon the sword ofthe Allies, and the complete victory of those nationspledged to destroy militarism and to assure the sacredrights of all peoples. The price of Achievement must bepaid for with the blood of many hundreds of thousandsof our bravest and best .

"The Christian world joins the Jewish in hearty lau-dation and earnest approval of this declaration.

"The eyes or Israel, dimmed by sorrow and cloudedby persecution, have ever seen the vision of the recon-structed Temple and the re-established glory of the HolyCity .

"The history of Palestine, the birthplace of enlight-enment, and of Jerusalem, the city of ancient literature,poetry, and philosophy, are enshrined in the hearts ofboth Jew and Christian the world over . From this foun-tain head Israel has drawn her undying inspiration andChristendom its religion of love and mercy.

"Let us, therefore, join our hearts in fervent hope andheroic resolution that all the sacrifices we have made,all we must make in the future to consummate this pur-pose shall not have been made in vain ; and that theprayers of the Jewish people which have ascended toHeaven through twenty centuries may now be answered,and Justice, long delayed, be now assured ; that aftertwo thousand years of banishment, the sons of this virile,historic race may regather from every corner of theearth and their hearts respond in truth as well as in sen-timent to the words, `This is my own, my native land,'and that in their just joy and pride they may ever remem-ber the great cause and the great nations of the earth

56

which, joined together for human rights and world jus-tice, have made the dream of Zionism a mighty reality .

"France and Italy have publicly approved the dec-laration of the British Government favoring the estab-lishment in Palestine of a National Home for the Jewishpeople. The people of the United States, being heartilyin accord, Congress through proper resolution shouldgive to it the force of National purpose ."

(Signed) "PORTER J. MCCUMBER ."

By Senator F. M. Simmons,Of North Carolina .

"I am in hearty accord with the purpose of ourAllies, France, England, and Italy, as expressed in theofficial declarations of these countries with respect to theZionist question .

"I am led to this conclusion because of an earnestdesire to see the Holy Places taken forever from Turkishcontrol . This being accomplished, it seems to me tha'aall Americans will agree that the Jews are the naturalguardians of these places . Obedience to the laws of alllands by the Jews should disabuse the minds of thedoubtful with respect to the Jews carrying out any agree-ment as to the rights of non-Jewish peoples .

"I should be glad to see Congress adopt an appro-priate resolution with regard to this matter ."

(Signed) "F. M. SIMMONS ."

57

UnitedStatesShould Ac-cord Nation-al Support.

In AccordwithZionism .

JewsNaturalGuardians ofPalestine.

FavorsCongressionalResolution .


Ever aForcefulAppeal.

PalestineNot Asylumbut Homefor Jews .

By Senator Thomas P. Gore,Of Oklahoma .

"From my youth up, the Zionist movement appealedwith peculiar force to my imagination . An appeal to thissort as you will readily appreciate has a stronger holdupon the youthful imagination than upon the more ma-ture judgment . I will make my meaning clearer as Iproceed. If anyone should charge that my state of mindtowards Turkey is one of prejudice, I could with goodconscience plead `not guilty .' Turkey has been thescourge of modern civilization. She has almost earnedthe reputation of being an outlaw among the nations .The tyranny and the cruelty which she has perpetratedupon weaker people has forfeited every claim, I will notsay of justice but certainly to generosity in judging ofher history and her policies .

"It is with me a deep seated and enduring hope thatPalestine may be permanently rescued from the toils ofthis ruthless and blighting despotism . It is my earnesthope that the independence and the integrity of Pales-tine may be securely established and guaranteed as oneof the beneficent results of this war. It is my hope thatboth the substance and the shadow of tyranny shall beforever banished from this ancient and historic land .It is my hope that all the Jews who inhabit the hills andvales of Palestine may be inviolably safeguarded in theenjoyment of life, liberty, and property, and in the pur-suit of happiness . It is my hope that the gates not onlyof Jerusalem but of Palestine itself shall stand ajar andabove them shall be written welcome to all the descend-ants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob . It is my hope thatthe footsore and heartsore Jews from every clime, vic-tims of an immemorial oppression and persecution maybe vouchsafed the privilege and the right to return tothe land of their fathers and work out their own destinyin their own way. It is my hope that the humblestJew in the most oppressed land shall be permitted tofind in Palestine, not an asylum, not a house of refuge,but a home where all the blessings of civilized life shallbe his inviolable inheritance and where none shall cometo molest or to make him afraid.

58

rinceracan war congress ana Gsonism"I reserve any opinion as to the wisdom of any con-

certed movement, campaign, or crusade to induce theIsraelites to return to the land of Israel . Certainly nocompulsion legal or moral should be exerted first tomake exiles of the Jews and then to make them unwill-ing citizens of Palestine. The considerations which in-duce me to make these observations are so numerous andso obvious as to make discussion entirely superfluous ."

(Signed) "T. P . GORE."

By Senator Robert L. Owen,Of Oklahoma .

"I have thought it would be well to establish in Pa-lestine a distinct Jewish state where the genius of thatrace for order and government might be offered to theworld, and moreover, where the historical character ofthe Hebrew race might be kept alive and presented as aliving entity to the world .

"This does not, in my judgment, minimize the valueof the members of the Hebrew race in their capacitiesas citizens of other nations . I should be glad to see therace, both as a distinct self-governing nation, and asindividuals given every possible opportunity to serve theworld ."

(Signed) "ROBERT L. OWEN."

By Senator George E. Chamberlain,Of Oregon .

"The attitude of England, France and Italy on theZionist question meets with my approval, because it pro-vides for the establishment of a home at the very cradleof a race, and where its most remarkable history wasmade and recorded . I do not see why the United Statesshould not officially make a declaration in line with thatof the Honorable Arthur J . Balfour, Secretary of Statefor Foreign Affairs ; and Congress too might with pro-priety adopt a resolution along the same line. Such acourse will give aid to the movement of the Jewish peopleto establish a National Home in Palestine and inspiritthem in what seems to me to be a most laudable under-taking."

(Signed) "GEo. E . CHAMBERLAIN."59

No Compul-sion onJews.

State toPreserveJewishCharacter .

Jews ofServiceThroughoutWorld .

FavorsUnitedStatesAction .


PublicRecognitionof JewishNationality .

ZionistRealizationis Ideal-Beneficialto All .

By Senator Charles L . McNary,Of Oregon.

"The official pronouncements of our Allies in favorof the Zionist program marks a new epoch in the historyof the Jews . These Declarations give formal publicrecognition that Israel as a nation is still alive and willpersist . This was necessary for the reason that somefew people were skeptical as to the national entity of theJews. All doubt as to this phase being totally dispellednow, it remains for those of the Jewish people who willsettle in their old-but new-home, to make Palestine, averitable Jewish State as is looked for by their brethrenall over .

"Palestine is the connecting link between Europe andAsia. The Jews, originally hailing from Asia, but whohave become Europeans in their diaspora extending fortwo thousand years, may now also serve as a link be-tween the people of these two great continents . It is,thus, a piece of good fortune that the Jews should becomethe governing people of Palestine . This, added to thefact, that the Holy Land is their historic home, the landof their dreams, and ambitions, makes the realization ofZionism at this time almost ideal . Europe may expectgreat results and much benefit from this promised Stateof Judea, and the Allied Governments will not be thelosers in helping Israel in this accomplishment.

"I wish to send through you my greetings and goodwishes to the Jewish State, and hope, as I am confident,that it will prosper and grow as in the days of old ."

(Signed) "CHARLES L. MCNARY."

60

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator Boies Penrose,Of Pennsylvania.

"I am entirely in sympathy with the views of whichZionism is the expression .

"I believe that the Government of the United Statesshould take action in line with the British declarationon the Zionist question . Palestine and the Holy Placesof both the Christian and Jewish religions should beforever removed from Turkish control . I have had formany years full opportunity to become familiar withand to appreciate the valued contributions of the Jewishpeople to our American institutions and I am ready atall times cordially to meet their aspirations .

"I am in full sympathy with the efforts of the Jewishpeople to establish a national home in Palestine, andrecognize the significance of such a proposition after thestruggle through centuries ."

(Signed) "BOLES PENROSE."By Senator Le Baron B. Colt,Of Rhode Island .

"I am very glad to give expression to my views onthis subject .

"I fully approve of the Honorable Arthur J . Balfour'sdeclaration in favor of the establishment in Palestine ofa National Home for the Jewish people, for I entertainthe highest regard and respect for them .

"I feel that suitable action might well be taken byour Government at the proper time along the line of thedeclaration by the British Government in support of thisNational Jewish Home plan, and should an appropriateresolution be offered I will certainly give the mattervery careful attention and consideration in the light ofmy high regard for the Jewish people. Personally Icannot too highly commend their attitude in inauguratingthis movement, for I believe that the establishment ofsuch a Home will tend to unify and crystallize the Jewishnational spirit and yet at the same time will not in anydegree detract from that loyalty to America and Amer-ican institutions so characteristic of the Jewish people ."

(Signed) "LE BARON B. COLT."61

For Com-plete En-dorsementby UnitedStates.

Significanceof Zionism.

ApprovesBalfourDeclaration.

CrystallizesNationalSpirit.


Let UnitedStates EffectRealization.

For Actionby Congress.

For Congres.sionalResolution .

JewishHomelandDesirable.

Most Ap-propriateTime.

By Senator Christie Benet,Of South Carolina .

"I approve of the official Declarations of England,France and Italy on the Zionist question and believe thetime has now come for vigorous action on the part ofthe United States not only to set its approval on theDeclaration but to put the terms of that declaration intoeffect as soon as possible. I see no reason why Congresswould not act promptly on the matter, and believe thatsuch action would tend to hearten the Jews all over theworld .

"Such being my belief I would favor the adoption ofa proper Resolution by Congress in favor of the estab-lishment in Palestine of a Jewish National Center. Arace without a home is a tragedy and I believe that thetime is now here when the Jews can have a home andthat home should be Palestine."

(Signed) "CHRISTIE BENET ."

By Senator Kenneth D. McKellar,Of Tennessee.

"I take pleasure in saying that I approve of the state-ment of Mr. Arthur J . Balfour of date November 2nd,1917, favoring the establishment in Palestine of a na-tional home for the Jewish people. I hope that theUnited States Government, by appropriate resolution,will favor the establishment in Palestine of a JewishNational Center .

"At the present the Jews have taken leading places inall the countries of the world and yet they have no inde-dependent nationality. The history of this remarkablerace, its sacred and profound literature, its social cohe-siveness, its worth and power, all make it peculiarlydesirable that it should have a distinct national home.

"There was never a better time to re-establish thishome in Palestine than at the present time and I trustthat in the settlements which must come after the war itwill be so arranged that a Jewish center shall be estab-lished in this historic land of the Jews ."

(Signed) "KENNETH D. MCKELLAR ."62

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator Thomas Sterling,Of South Dakota.

"I heartily approve the declaration of the BritishGovernment, made through Mr . Balfour, and endorsedby the Governments of France and Italy, in favor of theestablishment of a National Home in Palestine for theJewish people. I favor this declaration because of theplace the Jewish people have in the civilization of theworld and because it was in Palestine that the Jewishideals of religion, of society and of government werebrought into their most perfect realization .

"While the Jewish people, by their interminglingwith other nationalities and their manifest adaptabilityto new conditions, have ceased to be regarded as the pecu-liar and exclusive people they once were, still, throughall the changes and vicissitudes of the centuries, theyseem to have preserved many of the noblest traditionsand ideals of their race.

"I am confident that the establishment of the NationalHome in Palestine, while recognizing fully the civil andreligious rights of non-Jewish communities there, willhave a wholesome, humanizing and civilizing effect uponthe people of other communities and races in that region .

"I am, therefore, now inclined to look with favorupon the adoption of an appropriate resolution by Con-gress in favor of the establishment in Palestine of aJewish National Centre ."

(Signed) "THOMAS STERLING ."

By Senator Charles A. Culberson,Of Texas .

"I feel a very deep interest in the subject of the estab-lishment of a Jewish Homeland in Palestine in accord-ance with the British, French and Italian declarations,and will be glad to render any assistance in my powertoward the achievement of this object ."

(Signed) "C. A . CuLmERsoN ."

NationalRestorationWill FurtherCivilization.

Jews Pre-serve Idealsof Race.

HumanizingEffect ofJewishState.

FavorsResolution.

WillAssist.

The American War-Congress and Zionism

In HeartySympathy .

Heritageof AncientState.

LetJerusalemRise I

Duty ofUnitedStatesto Act.

By Senator Morris Sheppard,Of Texas.

"With the efforts of those of the Jewish people whodesire to re-establish the Jewish Republic in Palestine, Iam in hearty sympathy .

"Faith in the God of the spirit and the idea of spir-itual and political brotherhood which flowered from thatfaith, enabled the Jewish people in the early stages ofhistory to erect the world's first self-governing common-wealth, a commonwealth embodying the fundamentals ofcivilization, culture, law, order, and equality. Thiscommonwealth was finally destroyed by the Romandespotism which engulfed the world . The germ of hu-man liberty which had been so thoroughly developed bythe Jewish nation outlived the Roman Empire, the incur-sions and rule of the barbarians, medieval ignorance,superstition and violence, and today finds rich fruitionin the lands that are resisting the attempt of a modernCaesar and a modern Rome to set up a universal tyranny .

"The old Caesar destroyed the Jewish nation . Theimperial dreams of the new Caesar, to wit : the Hohenzol-lerns, the Hapsburgs and the Mohammeds, are soon tobe destroyed by the modern peoples in whom the libertyof Israel lives again . When Jerusalem fell, the oldRome continued to rise. Today, eighteen and a halfcenturies later, as Berlin, the modern Rome, totters toits fall, let Jerusalem rise! Such a spectacle wouldvastly aid in perpetuating the ideal of human liberty .It would thrill and inspire the world. It would epito-mize history. It would glorify equality, and would bea lasting and dramatic tribute to the deathlessness ofdemocracy.

"I approve the declarations of England, France andItaly on the subject of a new Zion in Palestine. I thinkthe United States should encourage the movement, andthat Congress should adopt an appropriate resolution ."

(Signed) "MORRIS SHEPPARD ."

64

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator William H. King,Of Utah .

"The statement by Hon . Arthur J. Balfour, Secretaryof State for Foreign Affairs, in the present British Min-istry, is in my opinion, the statement of a very desirableand proper policy to be pursued with reference to theconstitution of a free government for Palestine . I notethat the views of Mr. Balfour are endorsed by the officialrepresentatives of the French Government and the ItalianGovernment.

"Certainly all friends of liberty and progress in theworld would be gratified to see the national aspirationsof the Jews and the re-establishment of their ancienthome in Palestine realized and accomplished . It neednot to be said that the Government of the United Statesin view of its traditional policy for the promotion andprotection of republican institutions, and particularly onthe American continent as embodied in the Monroe doc-trine, could do other than look with favor and approvalupon the establishment of a free state in Palestine andthe integration of the national aspirations, culture, andliberties of the Jewish people ."

"It may not be necessary or opportune at this timefor Congress to make a declaration upon this subject .The views and attitude of our Government cannot in anyevent be other than as indicated above . It may not,however, be wise to interfere with the development ofthis movement by a Congressional declaration, beforethere is a more perfect formulation of plans for theaccomplishment of this project, which the liberal govern-ments that are waging this war for liberty and the rightsof nations will heartily approve and support ."

(Signed) "WILLIAM H. KING."

65

BalfourStatementProperPolicy.

UnitedStatesGovernmentFavorsJewishNationalAspirations.

CongressAction Per-haps In-opportune.


Re-estab-lishment tobe Realized .

AmericanJews andChristiansShould Aid.

FavorsCenter forJewishThought.

By Senator Reed Smoot,Of Utah .

"The British Declaration for Zionism came as alogical consequence in the aims of our Allies for re-establishment of small nationalities in their propersphere. Not only do I believe in the Jewish homelandin Palestine, but I am certain and confident that it willcome about as foretold by prophets of old and that thepresent World War will hasten the day of its consum-mation. We, on our part, will do our share in helpingthe Jewish people to realize their national aspirationsthat they have had for many centuries and especiallywithin recent years .

"Let me say to you that I emphasize this not only asa good American, but also as a good Christian . I seeevery reason for the American Jews to give this move-ment their entire support . It is their duty as well asthe duty of every good American . Aside from the inter-national, economic, social and religious aspect, I considerit very fascinating and inspiring . I should consider it apleasure to aid in my own way in the realization of thedream of the Jewish people for the last two thousandyears.

(Signed) "REED SMOOT."

By Senator W . P. Dillingham,Of Vermont.

"If I understand aright the Declarations of England,France and Italy on the Zionist question I approve them .

"It would seem to be especially fitting that there beestablished in Palestine a real center of Jewish nationalthought. If the scheme can be wrought out and devel-oped along reasonable lines and under conditions thatwill permit liberty of thought and action among allclasses and in such a way as to attract from all partsof the world men of the Hebrew faith, it would be mostdesirable.

"The civilization of the present century ought tomake possible the realization of such a hope withoutopposition from those of other faiths ."

(Signed) "W. P. DILLINGHAM."66

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Senator Miles Poindexter,Of Washington.

"The occupation of Palestine by the British forcesand the Declaration on November 2, 1917, by the BritishMinister of Foreign Affairs, favoring and encouragingthe establishment of a Jewish community of immigrantsof that race from all portions of the world in Palestine,is one of the most valuable developments of the greatworld war. I trust that it is illustrative of many otherrefreshing and strengthening readjustments which will bearranged when peace is made .

"The great opportunity thus offered will be a healingbalm to the hearts of hundreds, of thousands, and per-haps millions, of scattered Hebrews in all parts of theworld. Many of them have had this great ideal beforetheir eyes in hope and imagination for many years, andits consummation will seem like compensation, in part,for the sufferings and tribulations and wanderingsthrough long ages and generations of the race . While,perhaps, the return to Palestine may not appeal to allJews, to many, and especially to those who have pre-served in their full vigor the Jewish national traditions-it will be a happy and consecrated event.

"The history of the Jewish race is the best illustra-tion of the predominance of ideas . It never ruled overa great country, nor possessed, as compared with othercivilizations, valuable natural resources ; and yet thehistory of its development, its literature, religion, andlaws, and even the personal incidents and genealogiesof its members and rulers, are parts of the householdlife and culture of the most powerful ruling race of theworld .

"To be re-established in the very places and originsof their ancient power, and to occupy again the veryseats from which were spoken those mighty words whichhave ruled mankind, must be, to many Jews, the deepestsatisfaction and happiness . This re-establishment oftheir people, or a portion of them, in a self-governingcommunity under the protection of a great free empire,will add a new source of strength and inspiration to theworld. It will be the regeneration in a sense of the race,benefitting mankind by adding to the communities ofpeoples another one, where happiness, freedom, andopportunity prevail.

67

One ofGreat WarReadjust.ments.

Part Com-pensationfor Suffer-ings.

Race Illus-trates Pre-dominanceof Ideas.

Will BenefitRace andMankind.

The American War Congress and ZionismZionistMovementHeartilyApproved.

AdmiresDevotion toPalestine.

For Self-Determina-tion.

For Actionby Executiveor Congress.

No Weak-ening ofAllegiance.

"Having expelled the Turkish legions, the British havedispelled tyranny, and brought protection of life andproperty, freedom of worship, and work, to Palestine ;and this may be an omen of the material and spiritualimprovement of that land and of those who will, underthese happy auspices, come to occupy it, if the planproposed is carried out . It has my hearty approval andco-operation ."

(Signed) "MILES POINDEXTER."

By Senator Wesley L . Jones,Of Washington .

"I sympathize most sincerely with the hopes andaspirations of the Jewish people, and admire greatly theirsteadfast devotion to the land of their birth .

"I can see no objection to the Declaration made bythe British Government, but I do not know enough aboutthe real objects and purposes sought by your organiza-tion to feel qualified to express a fixed opinion uponthem, nor am I prepared to say what action, if any, thenation or Congress should take. I conceive this enter-prise to be something which must be worked out largely,if not entirely, by your people .

"No objection to a resolution by Congress, or adeclaration on the part of our Government, occurs tome now, but with the limited knowledge which I have ofyour project, it would be unwise and presumptuous forme to say what Congress or the nation should or shouldnot do in regard to it . I may say that I have some verypositive ideas as to what the attitude of all those claim-ing to be American citizens should be towards othercountries or sovereignties. Those who have preservedtheir nationality and desire to maintain their allegianceto their native land, should be prompted to do so ; butthose who have become citizens of this country, eitherby birth or adoption, should have no divided allegiance .This is the time for every American citizen to be anAmerican citizen, and I do not desire to do anything bysuggestion or otherwise to weaken the allegiance of anyof our citizens, and especially those who have becomesuch by adoption."

(Signed) "W. L. JONES."68

l n u ixnaertcan war congress ana ztonism

By Senator Howard Sutherland,Of West Virginia."I am glad to give my approval to the pronounce-ments of the Allies indorsing Zionism, for the reasonthat I believe it a matter of international justice that theJewish people, after a lapse of these years, may have anopportunity to establish a National Home in Palestine,where they may live in peace and contentment and freefrom race prejudices or hatreds."I see no reason why the U. S. Government shouldnot make a similar declaration to that already made byEngland, France and Italy ; and if such resolution isbrought before Congress for adoption I shall be glad tofavor it."I believe that this effort of the Jewish people toestablish a National Home in Palestine may result finallyin giving the Jewish people a permanent home upon soilhallowed by many sacred memories, and I wish them allsuccess in this most commendable enterprise."

(Signed) "HOWARD SUTHERLAND ."

By Senator Irvine L. Lenroot,Of Wisconsin."I am in hearty accord with the efforts of the Jewish

people to establish a National Home in Palestine, with-out prejudice to the civil and religious rights of non-Jewish communities there ."

(Signed) "I . L. LENROOT."

69

Matter ofJustice.

WouldSupport aResolutionof Congress.

WishingSuccess.

FavorsPalestineHomeland.


General Ap-probation ofAmericanPeople.

Erect Statein Cradleof Race.

Favor@Self-De-terminationof Nation-alities.

By Senator John B. Kendrick,Of Wyoming.

"The aspiration of the Jewish people for the estab-lishment in Palestine of a national home will, I am sure,meet with the general sympathy and approbation of thepeople of the United States, particularly at this timewhen the whole civilized world is united in a concen-trated effort to secure the principle of self determinationfor all races.

"There is no doubt now that Palestine, having beenfreed from the domination of the Turks, will never berestored to that alien rule . I can see no reason why, inthe place of the government which has been deposed,the nations of the world should not unite to erect aJewish State in the cradle of the ancient race which hassurvived through the centuries all manner of oppression ."

(Signed) "JOHN B. KENDRICK ."

By Senator Francis E. Warren,Of Wyoming.

"Quoting from your letter that : Ìn view of Presi-dent Wilson's utterances in favor of the rights of allsimilar nationalities, which are to be given the oppor-tunity of determining their own futures, it is of theutmost interest to the Jewish people of the United Statesto be informed of the opinion of the members of theUnited States Senate and of the House of Representa-tives on this important question' I beg to concur inPresident Wilson's remarks favoring the solution of thismatter."

(Signed) "F. E . WARREN."

70

Statements ofRepresentatives

*Including delegates from territorial possessions of the United States

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative William B. Bankhead,Of Alabama.

"I am unequivocally in favor of the return of Judeato the Jews not merely as an act of abstract justice andnot for the mere reason that the international situationjust now seems to point to the expediency of such a State .but more because of the contribution to the science ofgovernment a new Jewish State will mean .

"From the days of the Bible, to the present era, theJews have been formidable in the field of ethics . Theywere constantly teaching morals to the other nations anddo that now . For two thousand years they were deprivedof the opportunity, however, to exemplify these teach-ings. Government is essentially the practice of a stand-ard of ethics between man and his fellow man . By theestablishment of a Jewish State, the opportunity will befurnished for providing such a model of government tothe other nations that shall inspire emulation by the restof the world.

"Furthermore, it may be expected that the world'sart and culture will be enriched by such contributions inthose fields as will be made by a Jewish State. Jewshave heretofore made notable achievements in these linesbut not as Jews . They were Frenchmen or Englishmenor Russians, of the Jewish faith, but not Jews . Thereis a marked distinction between the two . In PalestineJewish talent and ability will unfold itself and be giventhe opportunity of self expression . It will mean a greatgain to the world culture and progress .

"I have no doubt that these considerations played agreat part in the decisions of the allied governments intaking their official steps in favor of a Jewish Homelandin Palestine in accordance with the Zionist principles .It will be very gratifying to me to have an opportunityto help the accomplishment of this movement in such amanner as may be at my disposal at the proper time .The Jews of the world may depend upon my assistance ."

(Signed) "WM. B. BertgsEw "

73

RestorationWillBenefitWorld.

Model Stateof Jews.

True JewishCultureto BeRealized.

Will AidMovement.


In AccordwithDeclaration .

ZionismEnnoblingMovement.

Will notPrejudiceJewishRightsElsewhere.

FavorsAction byUnitedStates.

By Representative John L . Burnett,Of Alabama .

"I am perfectly in accord with every word of theso-called British Declaration for the establishment inPalestine of a National Home for the Jewish people .As stated by Secretary Balfour, it is clearly understoodthat nothing should be done which may prejudice thecivil and religious rights of non-Jewish communities inPalestine or the rights and political status enjoyed byJews in any other country. To this end I shall give myutmost support, if necessary, in every possible way .

"Zionism, therefore, as it is practically expressed inthis Declaration has my sympathy and is promised myassistance . This conclusion I have reached after ex-amining the question to some degree, and after discussingit with you and others on several occasions. I think thecause of Zionism and the movement for a Jewish Nation-alism is a very worthy and ennobling one, one that re-minds us of the great contributions that the Jews havegiven to the world and the lofty mission that Israel hashad in its long historic past .

"Let me say, furthermore, that Zionism and the kindof Jewish Nationalism that I would support is the onethat would . not force any Jew, in those countries, wherehe has become a full citizen and perfectly acclimatized,to leave such country and join the new land of Zion . Nordo I believe this new country should exclude from itsmidst any Jews who may come there from the countrieswhere they have been oppressed and discriminatedagainst . I thus fully realize the great ideal of themovement.

"It is my opinion that the United States should takesteps similar to the ones taken by the other allied govern-ments regarding the problem of Zionism . Whether thisshould be in a form of a declaration by the Executivedepartment or by a proper resolution in Congress is oflittle moment to me. Either of the two methods wouldget my approval . It is a matter for the Jews themselvesto decide which one to consider best."

(Signed) "JOHN L. BURNETT ."

74

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Oscar L. Gray,Of Alabama.

"I heartily approve of the Declarations of England,France and Italy on the Zionist question. My reasonsfor favoring these Declarations are based on a deepsympathy for the race which has, for many centuries,been without a National Home ; and from a sense ofjustice to a people who have given to the world, litera-ture and ideals which have been the source of inspirationto countless numbers of men and women. It is to theJewish race that we owe the history of the human familyas given in the Old Testament ; it is to the Jews that wemust give honor for such men as Moses, David, and theprophets, who have given to us the Moral Law and thefaith inspiring Psalms, with their comfort and confidentpraise. I believe that the establishment in Palestine of aNational Home for the Jewish people would mean agreat constructive and progressive movement for thesepeople, whose faith has remained undimmed throughoutthe years of their tribulations . It would mean a har-binger of better things for all mankind, for would itnot mean that the time for the fulfillment of theprophesy was at hand, when Israel should be gatheredfrom the four corners of the earth, and be again estab-lished in Jerusalem, the City of David, around whichthere still clings the spiritual incense of religious in-spiration : when the dawn of a new day will be seenfrom the mountains, heralding the brotherhood of man,and the establishment of the Kingdom of God .

"I assuredly favor action by the United States in linewith the British Declaration, now or in the near future,and as stated, it being clearly understood, that nothingshall be done which may prejudice the civil rights ofnon-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights andpolitical status enjoyed by Jews in any other country .

"Should this question, as before stated, come beforeCongress, in the form of an appropriate resolution, Iwould favor its adoption, for the establishment in Pales-time of a Jewish National Centre.

75

A Harbingerof BetterThings .

ForAction byGovernment .

WouldSupportCongressResolution .

The American War Congress and ZionismDeservesSupport ofLibertyLovers .

Friendly butWithholdsOpinion.

For JewishHomelandin Palestine.

Re-estab-lishmentis FineSuggestion.

"My views in general in regard to this effort are, asbefore stated, that it is a very worthy one, and deservesthe support of all liberty loving people who desire tohold together in unity and love. I am glad for thisopportunity to express my views on this subject, andwill certainly co-operate in any movement that will helpthe Jewish People to establish a National Centre inPalestine, their original home ."

(Signed) "OSCAR L. GRAY ."

By Representative Fred L. Blackmon,Of Alabama.

"I am a staunch friend of the Jewish people and willdo anything I can consistently to help them, but I wouldnot declare my position on any question until it is upto me for decision ."

(Signed) "FRED L. BLACKMON ."

By Representative S . Hubert Dent,Of Alabama.

"I am heartily in favor of the establishment in Pa-lestine of a home for the Jewish people subject to thecondition that nothing be done which would in any wayinterfere with the religious and civil rights of non-Jewishpeople."

(Signed) "S. H . DENT, JR."

By Representative J . Thomas Heflin,Of Alabama .

"I am in hearty sympathy with any plan that willbetter the condition of the Jews in the old World, andthe suggestion of establishing a Jewish Homeland inPalestine for Jews of every country, which has beenendorsed by the President, I think, is a fine suggestion ."

(Signed) "J . THOS. HEFLIN."

76

The American War-Congress and ZionismBy Representative William B . Oliver,Of Alabama.

"I feel a keen interest and sympathy in the move- Keenly In-ment to found a Jewish Homeland in Palestine."

terested inMovement.

(Signed) "W. B . OLIVER."

By Representative Thaddeus H. Caraway,Of Arkansas.

"I am in full accord with the Balfour Declaration For Dec-favoring a Jewish Homeland in Palestine .

laration.

"I am influenced in favoring this proposition, first, Restorationbecause, I think it is but just that the home of the Jewish Inspiration

people should be restored to them, and, second, for senti- to Nations .

mental reasons. Again I think it would also prove aninspiration to all other people .

For Action"I believe the United States Government ought to by Execu-take action on Zionism similar to that of England . I tive andshall be pleased to see a resolution for a Jewish Home- Congress.land in Palestine introduced and adopted ."

(Signed) "T. H. CARAWAY."

By Representative Henderson M . Jacoway,Of Arkansas .

"I am in sympathy with the Declarations of England,France, and Italy on the Zionist question . I believe thatPalestine and the Holy Places of both the Christian andJewish religions should be forever removed from Turkishcontrol . Jerusalem is the city of the Jews, and whyshould they not be the guardians of the City?"

(Signed) "H. M . JACOWAY ."

77

Favors Dec-larations.


For Zionismwith AllAmericans.

ZionismAlm of AllBelligerents .

Would SesGovernmentAction.

By Representative William A. Oldfield,Of Arkansas.

"I am glad of the opportunity offered to me by theZionists of America to express my full sympathy fortheir cause and, in particular, for the British declarationin favor of a Jewish homeland in Palestine . I am readyto give my support and aid for this worthy movementin behalf of the oppressed Jewish nation . Surely no onewould doubt that the Jews deserve their re-establishmenton their ancient grounds in accordance with the biblicalprophecies and in agreement with the hopes and desiresof Israel for two thousand years . This sympathy forZionism is, in my opinion, prevalent among all Amer-icans who have always been anxious to aid the Jews intheir great problems .

"As it appears now, the realization of the Zionistprogram has become one of the aims of our allies, andit bids fair to become one of the questions at the peaceconference after this war . I do not at all doubt thatthe Allies will do all in their power to help the Jewsregain their ancient glory and existence . And whoknows but that even our opponents, the enemies of civi-lization, may finally agree to this condition?

"I should be glad to see, at the proper time, theUnited States taking the same position as was taken byour other Allies on this question . Whether this shouldbe done by a declaration on the part of the Governmentor through an appropriate resolution by Congress is amatter which may be decided at the time when theproposition will appear in a more concrete form ."

(Signed) "WILLIAM A. OLDFIELD."

78

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative John N . Tillman,Of Arkansas.

"I am in hearty sympathy with the declarations ofour Allies, France, England, and Italy, which favor theremoval of Palestine and the City of Jerusalem fromthe control of the Turkish Government . I should favoraction on the part of this Government, in support of thisposition .

"I was delighted to hear that the sacred city of theJews was delivered over into English hands last winter.It will be a happy day when the end of Turkish rule inJerusalem shall be made permanent . The claim of theJews to the homeland in Palestine in accordance with thedeclaration above mentioned, should be honored andestablished by the great Governments now banded to-gether in a holy crusade against the Germans and theTurks .

(Signed) "JOHN N. TILLMAN ."By Representative Denver S. Church,Of California .

"I would like to see Palestine become the homelandfor the Jews, a little republic operated and controlledby them, and guarded and guaranteed against harm bythe great powers of the earth. Palestine should be inthe hands of the Jews, for they love it more than anyother nation can, and consequently would protect itbetter, and make the sojourner feel more at home ."

(Signed) "DENVER S. CHURCH."By Representative Charles F . Curry,Of California.

"Those who believe in the Bible, in the old and inthe new testaments, know that the principles of Zionismare based on prophecy and that, in the time of the Lord,the Jews will be re-established in Palestine . As anindividual, I hope that time may soon come, althoughI do not believe there is room in Palestine for all of theJews of the earth and I do not believe that ten per centof the Jews of the United States would go there if therewere room."

(Signed) "C. F. CURRY."

FavorsAction byGovernment .

ShouldHonorJewishClaim.

EntrustPalestineto Jews .

Restorationsoundto Come .


ZionismNatural andDesirable.

Assertion-for Self-OpportunityWill BenefitJews.

FavorsZionism-Will Act .

By Representative Eneris A. Hayes,Of California.

"It is both natural and proper that the Jewish nationshould desire a country or state predominantly theirown. Palestine and Jerusalem are, by tradition at least,the country of the Jewish nation, and I believe that theefforts of the Jewish people to re-establish their homethere is not only natural but in all ways desirable ."

(Signed) "E. A . HAYES. "

By Representative William Kettner,Of California.

"I am very strongly in favor of the Zionist move-ment, and when the opportunity arises I will show myfeelings by actions, which I believe will be more effec-tive than words."

(Signed) "WILLIAM KETTNER."

By Representative Clarence F. Lea,Of California.

"I approve of the Declaration of sympathy with theZionist aspirations, as voiced by Hon . Arthur J . Balfour.The racial fidelity, the virility, strength and persistentcourage of the Jewish people commands the admira-tion of every right-thinking man . The contributions ofindividual Jews of the various nations of the earth givepromise of a useful career of Jewish character, whengiven self-assertion through a Jewish nation ."

(Signed) "CLARENCE F. LEA ."

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Henry Z. Osborne,Of California .

"I have no hesitancy in stating that in a general wayI approve the declaration made by Mr . Balfour of estab .lishing in Palestine a National Home for the Jewishpeople .

"I think the establishment of such a home is almostpurely sentimental, however, as I doubt if any consid .erable number of Jews in the United States, and per-haps in other countries, would care to avail themselvesof such a home ."

(Signed) "HENRY Z. OSBORNE."

By Representative Richard P . Freeman,.Of Connecticut.

"Among the important questions to be settled in thetreaty of peace, will be the disposition and governmentof Palestine. That country should no longer be underthe Government of Turkey . Whether or not a Jewishnation can be created or re-established in Palestine de-pends upon the Jews who are willing to make it theirhome and their country.

"I approve of the declarations of England, Franceand Italy, and would favor the adoption of a similarresolution by the Congress of the United States."

(Signed) "R. P . FREEMAN."

81


Idea Oneof Sentiment.

SuccessDependson Jews .

WouldSupportCongressResolution.


Supporter .

Ideal andPractical.

For Govern-ment ActionLike Thatof Allies .

PledgesSupport .

FavorsZionistMovement .

By Representative John E . Raker,Of California.

"I heartily approve in every way of the official dec-laration for a Jewish Home Land in Palestine, as issuedby the British, French and Italian Governments . I seeevery reason for such approval, and cannot, at the pres-ent moment, see any possible objection to this step .

"This Declaration should be supported and en-couraged because the desire for the return of the perse-cuted Jews to the land of their ancestors has becomealmost interwoven with their religion . The Jewishpeople have been hoping for this solution of the worldproblem for hundreds of years. It will revive the oldHebrew language as spoken in the days of old . Further-more, it is a most practical venture . This country,under the rule of the Turk, had not been used to itshighest extent agriculturally and otherwise. Within thelast thirty-five years, as I understand it, the Jews havebrought prosperity into part of that country . The estab-lishment of a Jewish home, therefore, would increasethe material value of the land manyfold, if not indeed,effect its spiritual uplift in many ways.

"I personally can see no objection for the UnitedStates Government to take action similar to that takenby the other Governments on this matter, at such timewhen it would be considered advisable by the properauthorities .

"I wish to assure you that when an appropriateresolution will be introduced in Congress embodying thesentiments thus expressed I shall give it due considera-tion, with the view of helping to solve the Jewish prob-lem to the benefit of the Jews.

"I consider the Zionist movement for a NationalHome for the Jews in Palestine a very worthy one . Ifeel certain that the Jews will do everything in theirpower to help our Government in this world strugglefor Democracy at the same time that they will lend ahelping hand to their brethren in helping to build theirancient home."

(Signed) "JOHN E. RAKER ."

82

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative James P. Glynn,Of Connecticut.

Offers"I want to say that I deeply sympathize with the support.

dreams of the Jewish people for a Jewish homeland inPalestine in accordance with the official Declarations ofEngland, France, and Italy . It will certainly give mepleasure to support such a movement in any way I can."

(Signed) "JAMES P. GLYNN."By Representative Augustine Lonergan,Of Connecticut.

"I am in agreement with the principles of the state-ments made on the subject of a Jewish Homeland inPalestine by our associates in the war because I am infavor of any and all peoples seeking to express theirdesires in a government by themselves, for themselves .

"While definite action by the United States Govern-ment in the premises is hardly necessary, I think a state-ment by the Government would be in good taste . Inso-far as a resolution by Congress would express the senti-ments of Congress, I would favor it, but think as I haveindicated, that the whole solution is one to be workedout by the Jewish people."

(Signed) "AUGUSTINE LONERGAN ."By Representative Schuyler Merritt,Of Connecticut.

"I do approve of having Palestine a headquartersfor Jews, and, so far as practicable, under their rule,assuming in the spirit of the British declaration thatnothing should be done to the prejudice of the religiousrights of any other people. I therefore do favor thespirit of the British declaration .

"I should be in favor of any reasonable action byour own Government to safeguard the rights of the Jews,particularly in Palestine, and in any other part of theworld, not only because I believe in liberty in general,but because I believe the Jews are a valuable element inthe industry and civilization of the world ."

(Signed) "S. MERRITT."

83 .

Advantagesof NationalSelf-Ex-pression .

WouldSupportResolution .ProblemJewish One.

FavorsSpirit ofDeclaration.

Jews En .titled toConsidera-tion.


Will gladlySupportMovement.

Jews WillSafeguardPalestine.

By Representative Benjamin C. Hilliard,Of Colorado.

"I have always had an interest in Zionism and havefollowed the growth of the movement with a great dealof pleasure. Now that the British Army has driven theTurk from the Holy Land the culmination of this dreamof the ages seems probable . The blood shed by theEnglish and French knights upon the spears of Saladin'swild horsemen and the blood shed by the brave EnglishTommies of General Allenby was not in vain if a newnation be established on the hallowed shores of Pales-tine .

Anxious

"I trust the Zionists will not fail to call on me for anyto Help .

possible service I can render."(Signed) "B . C. HILLIARD."

RestorationRecompensesfor WarLosses.

By Representative John Q. Tilson,Of Connecticut.

"I am in thorough accord with the official declarationof Secretary Balfour, as endorsed by the Governmentsof France and Italy, on the subject of the establishmentin Palestine of a National home for the Jewish people,and I shall gladly support a movement in that direction .

"Surely the control of the wonderful little countrycontaining within its borders the Holy Places of bothJews and Christians should be permanently kept fromthe Turk . To whose care could it be more appropriatelyentrusted than to the descendants of those who madesuch wondrous history there? Jewish history subsequentto the dispersion from Palestine makes it all the morecertain that if restored to those whose forebears madeits earlier history glorious, it will be faithfully kept andsacredly guarded for the benefit of all mankind ."

(Signed) "JOHN Q. TIISON."

84

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Edward Keating,Of Colorado .

"The Zionist movement generally, and the British BelievesDeclaration particularly, are very desirable, in my oPin- in Rights

of Smallion, from at least two points of view .

Nationali-"To start with, it gives practical expression to the ties.

realization of the rights of small nationalities, amongwhom Jews stand out very prominently. Secondly, theformation of a Jewish state in Palestine is desirablebecause of its geographic location, both economicallyand internationally . The stronger this state the moreadvantageous it would be not only to the Jews, but alsoto the great part of the rest of humanity.

"Personally, I do not have the least doubt that this No ExcuseJewish Government and nation, once again re-established Opposition .forin the land of its ancestors, would in a short while growmaterially and spiritually . My sympathies have alwaysbeen with the oppressed and downtrodden . I know alsothat these are the sympathies of the Jews all over . Icannot for a moment imagine how anyone can be opposedto the British Declaration as officially announced by theHonorable Arthur J. Balfour . It is high time that theJews obtained that which they have long been missingand for which they have been hoping and yearning forcenturies and ages .

"From what I have said we can easily understand wouldthat I would be glad to support a resolution for a Jewish Support a

homeland in Palestine, provided, of course, it has the withl°tien

sanction of the proper authorities in this country . This Executiveprecaution and reservation I am compelled to make under Sanction.present conditions because in matters of such tremen-dous international import I am willing to be guided andadvised by the president of the United States .

"Please tell the Zionists of America and of the world Desirablethat I am very glad to have had this opportunity of ex- to Allpressing my sentiments and opinions to the world on Americans.

this matter which is so important to all the Jews and notthe less desirable to all Americans ."

(Signed) "EDWARD KEATING."

85


FavorsAction byDemocraticGovern-ments.

AmericaShould HaveBeen Firstto Act .

Congres-sional Sup-port toMovement.

By Representative Edward T. Taylor,Of Colorado .

"I see no reason why I should not support and votefor any measure of this kind if it ever comes before theHouse for consideration, and I think I am safe in advis-ing you that I will do so, at least I feel very kindly to-wards this movement of your race.

"1. I approve the British declaration favoring the re-establishment of the Jewish Homeland in Palestine .

"2. I favor appropriate action by the democraticgovernments to effect the practical consummation of theabove declaration." (Signed) "EDwARD T . TAYLOR."

By Representative Charles B . Timberlake,Of Colorado .

"The United States, the birthplace of Democracy,should have been the first rather than the last to havefavored by act of its Congress, the re-establishment ofthe Jewish Nation in their historic land, and I shall wel-come the opportunity to support this action already toolong delayed." (Signed) "CHAS. B. TIMBERLAKE."

By Representative Albert F . Polk,Of Delaware.

"I am in full sympathy with and approve the officialdeclarations of England, France and Italy on the Zionistquestion. I favor this declaration because I feel thatPalestine and the Holy Places of both the Christian andJewish religions should never again be under Turkishcontrol. I should be glad to see the United States Gov-ernment take action in line with the British declaration,but action upon this question must be looked for firstfrom the Executive. Personally, however, I would favorthe adoption of an appropriate resolution by Congressfavoring the establishment of a Jewish National Centerin Palestine. I feel that the efforts of the Jewish peopleto establish a National Home in Palestine are but natural,and the success of this effort and movement would bringabout the realization of that which has been nearest tothe Jewish heart since the days their forefathers weredriven from Palestine ." (Signed) "ALBERT F. POLK."

86

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Frank Clark,Of Florida .

"I am thoroughly in favor of establishing a Jewish Favors Dec-Homeland in Palestine in accordance with the official laration and

Offers Aia .declaration of the United States, Great Britain, Franceand Italy, and will do what I can to accomplish thiswire.

(Signed) "FRANK CLARK ."

By Representative Walter Kehoe,Of Florida .

"I approve of the Declarations of England, France Approvesand Italy, and the expression of our own great President Declaration.

on the Zionist question ."The Jewish population of this country both in times

of Peace and in times of War, have been good and loyalcitizens and I fully appreciate their worth ."

(Signed) "WALTER KEHOE."

By Representative Charles R . Crisp,Of Georgia .

"I am heartily in accord with the proposition to re- Restorestore Palestine to the Jewish race, as a homeland ."

tPal~esti e

(Signed) "C. R. CRISP."

By Representative William W . Larsen,Of Georgia .

"While I have not given this question any study, yetI see no reason why the Jews should not be given a homein Palestine."

(Signed) "W. W. LARSEN."

By Representative Frank Park,Of Georgia .

"I have not had time to thoroughly read the bookletregarding the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Pa-lestine, but no doubt America will agree with the declara-tions of England, France and Italy. The four countriesmentioned being allied on issues of great moment, doubt-less will stand together on other policies where themajority agree ."

(Signed) "FRANK PARK."

87

Seesno Reasonfor Opposi-tion.

UnitedStateslikelytoFollowAlliedAction .


RestorationMeritsApproval .

BelatedRecognitionof JewishBirthright .RestorationEvidencesGood Faithof Allies.

RestorationMerited byJews.

God'sPromiseno "Scrapof Paper."

By Delegate J. Kunio Kalanianaole,Of Hawaii.

"I am heartily in favor of the plan of the Alliedgovernments in making Palestine the homeland of theJewish people. This is an action that all right thinkingpeople will approve .

"I know of nothing that would bring more real joyto the Jewish people, long suffering and persistent, thanthis belated recognition of their birthright .

"In addition to this feature, the establishment of thehomeland would be a lasting monument evidencing thegood faith of the Allied Nations in the greatest war ofall times, waged in the interest of humanity and world .wide democracy." (Signed) "J. K . KALANIANAOLE."

By Representative Burton L . French,Of Idaho .

"The contribution that the Hebrew race has madeto world civilization merits the generous course outlinedby Mr. Balfour in the matter of the birthplace of theJewish people."

(Signed) "BURTON L. FRENCH."

By Representative Addison T. Smith,Of Idaho.

"Concerning `The Establishment of a Jewish Home-land in Palestine,' permit me to say I regard it the mostmomentous event that has occurred since the beginningof the war . While the political effect is of the greatestsignificance to the world, this event, so unexpected, isattended with a religious significance of far-reaching re-sults . The student of history must be blind who cannotrecognize Divine interposition in the returning of God'sancient people to the `promised land .' The Ruler of theuniverse is demonstrating to the world that His wordis something more than a `Scrap of paper."'

(Signed) "ADDISON T. SMITH."

88

By Representative Edward E . Denison,Of Illinois .

"My first desire is that Palestine may be forever takenfrom the dominion of the Turks . After that, I wouldbe glad to see a Jewish Homeland restored in Palestineunder any plan that could be agreed upon by the alliedGovernments."

(Signed) "E. E. DENISON."

By Representative Charles E. Fuller,Of Illinois.

"I am pleased to assure you that I fully approve theofficial declarations of England, France and Italy on theZionist question as quoted by you . I would also favoraction along the same lines by our own Government,and a declaration by the Congress of the United Statesin favor of the establishment in Palestine of a JewishNational Government, if the Jewish people so desire.

"In any event, Palestine should never be permittedto revert to the Turks. It is the natural home of theJewish people and there they should be permitted, ifthey so desire, to establish a government and a NationalHome."

(Signed) "CHAS. E. FULLER."

By Representative Thomas Gallagher,Of Illinois .

In Line"I believe that the greatest object of the United States witsh

in this war, is, and should be, the bringing of freedom America'sto the various subject races of Europe and Western Asia . Warct In

"I believe that every civilized race and people in theworld is entitled to some place in the world which they Jewscan call their own, and where they can erect and main- Entitledtain a state which shall represent their own particular to State.

ideas in government, religion, and other matters. I cer-tainly feel that the oldest of oppressed races, a racewhich has kept its racial consciousness under such ad-verse conditions and during nearly two thousand yearsof exile, is entitled at last to be permitted to erect a newJewish State in the old home of their fathers ."

(Signed) "THOMAS GALLAGHER ."

89

WouldApprove ofRestoration.

FavorsLegislativeand Execu-tive Action .

NaturalHome ofJews.

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative William J . Graham,Of Illinois.

World War

"If the Jewish people desire to return to Palestineto Saleguard-Small and there, in the seat of their former national greatness,guard

Nationalities. re-establish their former home, I am in favor of extend-ing to them the opportunity of doing so. If this worldwar is not in vain, it will establish the right of everypeople to preserve its own nationality and to work outits own destiny, unmolested and at peace with its neigh-bors. If the Jews of the world desire again to establishtheir nationality in the land made sacred to them bythe teachings of their prophets and the dust of their an-cestors and by the struggles of their race, then I, for one,am for that movement . Let us, by all means, have equalopportunity for national growth and freedom ."

(Signed) "W. J. GRAHAM."

WantsUnitedStatesto Assist.

WorldOwesSupport.

Will HelpJewishNation.

By Representative Clifford Ireland,Of Illinois.

"I am in hearty accord with the Declarations of Eng-land, France, and Italy on the Zionist question. I amin favor of these declarations because it seems to me thatPalestine and the Holy Places of the Christian and Jewishreligions should be forever removed from Turkish con-trol, and if it be the desire of the Jewish race I amheartily in favor of lending our national influence towardthe establishment of a government in Palestine, that is,an independent State, sustained and controlled by menand women of that nationality .

"The Jewish people have had a career so unusualand wonderful in every way that they richly deserve theassistance of the whole world in carrying forward suchan experiment .

"I am very glad of the opportunity to make my senti-ments known and will do my utmost to help the Jewishrace, or nation, in this movement ."

(Signed) "CLIFFORD IRELAND ."

90

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Niels Juul,Of Illinois.

"I cannot conceive of a thought more beautiful than project

the restoration of Palestine, the re-organization and re- Attractive .

construction of the Jewish nation."When Lord Byron, a hundred years ago, wrote in

his famous Hebrew Melodies :-"'Oh! weep for those that wept by Babel's stream,Whose shrines are desolate, whose land a dream .Weep for the harp of Judah's broken shell ;Mourn-where their God hath dwelt the godless dwell!"'And where shall Israel lave her bleeding feet?And when shall Zion's songs again seem sweet?And Judah's melody once more rejoiceThe hearts that leapt before its heavenly voice?""he was no doubt already then mourning the fact thatthere was no home for the Jewish nation .

"The action of the British Army in Palestine in the Jewish

last few days in cleaning out, at least in part, the Turks m~°ttabii .h-

from the promised land should make what has for cen- withinturies seemed like a dream, a possibility soon to be Reach.realized, and I think that the opportunity to establishthe Jewish nation in their old Jewish homeland is sonear now as to be almost within reach .

"I, of course, realize that the return to Palestine by Many Jewsall the Jews is impossible and impracticable, but I am willsure that hundreds of thousands of the Hebrew race will Return.

avail themselves of the opportunity to live and die inthe ancient home of their fathers, possessing as they doa history, a religion and a language which centuries ofpersecution have been unable to blot out .

"It would seem that the questions in Lord Byron's Jewssad songs are about to be answered . Zion's songs shall to Findagain seem sweet when `the tribes of the wandering feet peace.

and the weary breast' shall again take possession of theland that once was theirs and let us hope that, under aJewish flag, it will flow with milk and honey .

91

The American War Congress and ZionismJewishSituationlikeBelgian .

Favors Au-tonomousJewishState.

WouldServe asDeterrent toPersecutionselsewhere .Does notConflictwithAmericanism .

"I favor Zionism because I look upon the Jewishsituation as I look upon the Belgian situation . TheJews were dispossessed of their home by force and yetin spite of that force they have managed to preservethrough the centuries a language, a literature, and areligion . Therefore, the Government and the Congressof the United States should take action similar to that ofEngland ."

(Signed) "NIELS JUUL ."

By Representative Medial McCormick,Of Illinois .

"It goes without saying that I subscribe to Mr. Bal-four's declaration for a homeland for the Jews . But Iprefer to go further and to say that we ought to supportthe creation in Palestine of an autonomous state, to besettled by Jews, to whom its destinies should be confidedwith clear provision for the rights of others, whetherliving in the Holy Land or going into pilgrimages to theholy places .

"There is no statement for Zionism and the estab-lishment of a Jewish State so able and so clear as thatof my friend, Mr. Justice Brandeis. It should be widelydistributed . Doubtless few American Jews would settlein Palestine, but even so, that in no sense answers jus-tice Brandeis' argument. A Jewish state would affordpresent security and a sure future for the Jews of easternEurope and their children, who would settle there ; itwould serve as a deterrent to the oppression of Jewseverywhere; it would open to the world, and guard forgenerations to come, places of incomparable religiousand historic interest to mankind. Since this in no sensemilitates against the citizenship and Americanism of theJews in America, I am happy to join my views to thatof the others who speak for the Jewish state throughyour volume."

(Signed) "MEDILL MCCORMICK."

92

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative William B . McKinley,Of Illinois .

"I fully approve of the Declarations of England,France, and Italy, on the Zionist question as officiallypublished by these respective governments . I do so forthe one great reason among many others, that I considerthese declarations an expression of justice, to the Jews,and perhaps to all other small nationalities .

"I certainly favor action by the United States Gov-ernment in line with the British declaration, now or atany future time, when it may be considered to the bestinterests of the cause .

"Should a resolution be introduced into Congressexpressing in concrete terms the principles of Zionismand a Jewish Homeland in Palestine, I should be gladto give it its proper consideration, which would naturallydepend very largely upon the conditions and circum-stances that may exist at that particular time . It isvery difficult to forecast such possibilities at the presentmoment when the course of history is so greatly accel-erated .

"In general, I consider the efforts of the Jewishpeople to establish a national home in Palestine, as avery fine sentiment which should receive the support ofall well-meaning people no matter what their nationality,religion, or race."

(Signed) "W. B. McKINLEY."

93

Declarationan Expres-sion ofJustice.

For Govern-ment Action .

Proper Con-siderationfor Reso-lution .

MovementShouldReceiveSupport .

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Martin B . Madden,Of Illinois.

Would Free

"I am heartily in favor of removing Christian andJudaism and Jewish religions from Turkish control and to that endChristianityfrom Un-

I am in accord with the declaration of Honorablefriendly

Arthur J . Balfour, Secretary of State for Foreign AffairsControl . of the British Government, sympathizing with the Zion-

ists' aspirations for the establishment of a national homefor the Jewish people and pledging the best endeavorsof the British Government to facilitate the achievementof that object without in any wise interfering with thecivil and religious rights of non-Jewish communities inPalestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed byJews in any other country .

For

"The career of the Jewish people is deserving of theAction byGovern-

assistance of the civilized nations of the world in thement . accomplishment of their object and I favor a declaration

by the Government of the United States similar to thatexpressed by the other allied nations in favor of theestablishment in Palestine of a Jewish national centerwhich will afford recognition to the Jews as a distinctnationality.

Guarantee

"The war in which the world is engaged should re-Jews from sult in the liberation of all races and make for govern-Persecutions . ment by the people to an extent never known before.

The Jews have taken a conspicuous place on the battlefields in the present war ; they have been unfalteringin their devotion to the cause of freedom and are en-titled to every consideration which will guarantee themimmunity in the future from the persecution which hasbeen practised against them in the past ."

(Signed) "MARTIN B. MADDEN."

94

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative William E. Mason,Of Illinois.

"I am decidedly in favor of the resolution by theCongress of the United States favoring the establish-ment of a national home for the Jewish people in Pales-tine . This action was already taken by our co-workersin this war, England, France, and Italy . There shouldbe no delay in making this announcement. The pro-ject is entirely in the interest of civil liberty and theproposition made by our co-workers and asked for bythe Jews of the world does not contemplate anythingthat can be construed in any way as depriving thoseof different religious faiths from exercising their fullliberty both as to religion and politics . This is boundto come and I hope I may be able to contribute in away to bring about this great day .

"My observation of the past and in the present greatcrisis where the Jews are helping so loyally in treasureand blood is that every American feels more than everlike doing justice to that people. While in the Senateof the United States I opposed all treaties with Russiauntil we could have an absolute guarantee from the Czarthat American citizens should have protection underAmerican passports, regardless of whether they wereJews or Gentiles. The despotism of the autocrats ofRussia have brought that country to its present unhappysituation.

"The United States of America will grow in powerand prosperity just in proportion as it stands for humanliberty."

(Signed) "WILLIAM E. MASON."

By Representative Henry T . Rainey,Of Illinois .

"I sincerely hope that the end of the war will findPalestine under the control and protection of the civi-lized nations of the world, and unless this happens thevictory which we must have will not be complete . I amvery much pleased with the idea of establishing a Jewishhomeland in this most historic section of the world."

(Signed) "HENRY T. RAINEY."

7 9 5

FavorablePronounce-ment ShouldBe MadewithoutDelay.

JusticetoJews.

Friend ofMovement.


WouldLikeAction .

ApprovesDeclaration .

PledgesSupport .

By Representative John W . Rainey,Of Illinois .

"I approve the British Declaration favoring the re-establishment of the Jewish homeland in Palestine andwould like to see action by the democratic Governmentsto that effect."

(Signed) "JOHN W. RAINEY."

By Representative William A. Rodenberg,Of Illinois .

"The British declaration for a Jewish homeland inPalestine, as seconded and indorsed by the French andItalian Governments, is, in my opinion, a very com-mendable act which has my entire support and sym-pathy. The history of the Jewish people shows that therealization of the Zionistic principle is very desirablefrom many viewpoints . It fits into the eternal arrange-ment of things . It is advisable and laudable that theJews be granted their long hoped for dream .

"In agreement with President Wilson and his prin-ciples of justice in aiding small nationalities in everyway, I should be glad to include the Jewish peopleamong those who are to be aided. This would causetheir re-establishment in the Holy land . It has been mypolicy all along to build up things and try to help newventures that are worthy, instead of tearing down con-stantly. In thus giving my help along the lines of theBritish declaration, I shall again follow these sameprinciples.

"I am in favor of an appropriate resolution to beintroduced into Congress embodying the thoughts I haveset forth in this statement for the Zionist organization inthe United States. Should such resolution, or one sim-ilar to it, ever be introduced in Congress, I shall favorit and would vote accordingly ."

(Signed) "WILLIAM A. RODENBERG."

96

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Adolph J. Sabath,Of Illinois.

"Breathes there a Jew with soul so dead that it nolonger reverberates with the sound of hope for a recon-structed `Homeland' whence once again Israel may sendforth his ideals, his literature and his philosophy for thefurther enlightenment of the world?

"The time now is pregnant with great possibilities ;the resulting birth is what we are concerned with as apractical proposition .

"We must not, however, permit our judgment to bewarped by sentiment . We must do naught that might inthe least prejudice the cause . Though I favor the adop-tion of resolutions for an autonomous Jewish Govern-ment, and though I pledge myself to do all in my powerto assist in bringing about a favorable action by theCommittee on Foreign Affairs, of which I have the honorto be a member, I realize, nevertheless, that mere reso-lutions will bring no practical results .

"Wilson, the greatest President of all times, has de-clared in favor of the sacredness of the right of smallnations. In President Wilson we shall undoubtedly finda great factor leading for the cause of freedom, libertyand independence of nations. I would, therefore, preferto wait for a definite expression on his part . I feel thatPresident Wilson will use every effort in behalf of acause held sacred and inviolate by him .

"All arguments to the contrary notwithstanding, Ibelieve that the re-establishment of Palestine as a homefor the Jews will not only fail to prejudice the Jewishposition, but in my opinion will help to dignify theirstation amongst all peoples of the earth, and lend en-nobling influence on the countless co-religionists who ofnecessity must remain in a good many countries, wherethey live under less advantageous conditions than we ofAmerica or England . I believe that in the realizationof this venture, the Jewish nation will recover a positionthat has been denied it throughout centuries of oppres-sion and captivity. Not only from a religious aspectbut as an independent nation, the Jews if given the oppor-

97

MereResolutionsUseless.

Faith inWilson .

RestorationWill DignifyJewishPosition.

The American Way Congress and Zionism

RestorePalestineto Jews.

tunity will soon relight the flame of their traditionalpassion for distinctive civilization and enlightened gov-ernment, and once again those backs bent with oppres-sion will straighten, those talents asleep will awakento sing, paint, and sculpture, those eyes dimmed withtribulation will clear, and through vision unimpairedwill radiate philosophy of brotherhood and governmentbased on compassion, love, equality and progress . Thuswill the wondrous race that survived all methods of per-secution throughout the weary centuries again emanatewarmth of Charity and light of Justice for the guidanceof all the world ."

(Signed) "A. J . SABATH ."

By Representative John A. Sterling,Of Illinois .

"I am heartily in favor of devoting Palestine to theJewish people as a homeland . It seems to me that itwould be extremely appropriate at this time after thatcountry has been taken from the vandals, to restore itto its original people." (Signed) "JOHN A. STERLING."

98

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Loren E. Wheeler,Of Illinois.

"I am in entire sympathy with the declarations ofEngland, France, and Italy, for a Jewish state in Pales-tine. I fully approve of this step as an act of justice tothose Jews of the world who have no homeland of theirown. It was very gratifying to me to read the approvalof these declarations given by President Wilson . Un-like some others, I consider the action of the allies intheir decision for the re-establishment of the Jewish na-tion not as a favor or an act of charity to this historicpeople but rather as an expression of justice and whatwas duly coming to the Jews .

"In my own estimation, this declaration will serve tothe Jews and will be looked upon by them as Englandlooks upon its Magna Charta and as Americans con-sider the Declaration of Independence . It is probablythe greatest event for the Jews of the world since thedestruction of the Temple . To be re-established in thisold home, to regain this historic land and to rebuildtheir old state is bound to be the greatest single historicaljubilation of the children of Israel . It is so much moreso for the reason that they had to wait for it for somany centuries. This long delay of justice to themmeans so much greater and firmer happiness .

"This result had to come as soon as President Wilsonannounced the principle of self-determination of all na-tions big and small . I felt from the first that this meantthe regeneration of the Jewish people. I shall, of course,be very glad to support this principle as applied to theJewish people both personally and officially."

(Signed) "L. E . WIJEELER."

99

Act ofJustice.

JewishMagnacharts .

It Hadto Como.


JudeaSource ofChristianity .

JewsOppressedforCenturies .

AffordsOpportuni-ties toExpressIdeals .

By Representative William E . Cox,Of Indiana.

"For more than thirty centuries unique and aloneJudea has stood among the countries of the globe. Anation's greatness is not measured by its gold, its num-bers, its mines, mountains, valleys, prairies, armies,bridges, or skyscrapers, but is determined by its ideals,by which it has stood, and the benefits it has conferredon mankind such as Judea has stood for . Rome taughtmankind a government of law, Greece gave us the highest,beautiful ideal in life, but it remained for Judea andher people to give mankind the true Christian religion,which is now universally believed in by more than abillion of people inhabiting the earth . These ideals andteachings given to searching mankind makes Judea andher people the greatest on earth .

"Through all the years of the past, from the days ofMoses, the great lawyer, down to the present time, theJews have been as constant to this idea as the stars intheir courses, although for the centuries past the ironheel of the oppressor like a juggernaut has mercilesslytorn the Jews from their land and scattered them to thefour corners of the earth . Yet, wherever he has goneforward he has carried his ideals among all nations andtribes of people .

"But just as Moses has led the Israelites out ofbondage, so the Allies are now redeeming Judea fromthe hand of the unspeakable Turk, as a fitting finale tothis World War . Judea should be established as anindependent nation, an independent sovereign, withpower to govern itself and go forward and complete itsideals of life. I feel that I am expressing the thoughtsof the American people, and certainly of those withwhom I have discussed this question, that the Govern-ment of the United States should use its proper influencesin seeing that this Jewish State be created, wherefromwill emanate the teachings and principles of old Judea .I shall always favor that proposition whenever it shouldbe brought in some practical form for my decision .

100

The American War Congress and Zionism"To see these ideals brought to a realization is cause

sufficient for the Zionist Movement among the Jews ofthe world, as well as among non-Jews who are acquaintedwith the situation . However, the formation of a JewishState, probably a Republic in the Holy Land, must ofnecessity also be of great material assistance not onlyto the scattered Jews in various countries, but to all theinhabitants of the world . It is, therefore, no surpriseto me that the Zionists received full support from allthe Governments of the Allies, including our owncountry. I am sure that in the course of time Zionismwill embrace not only all the members of the Jewishfaith and nation, but also all other peoples who willhave had an opportunity to learn about its purposes andprinciples ."

(Signed) "W. E . Cox."By Representative Henry A. Barnhart,Of Indiana.

"While I have heard no expression from the Jewishresidents of the district I represent I should think theywould all be in favor of the re-establishment, in Palestineof a national Jewish center. I can see no reason whysuch a favor should not be granted to the deservingJewish people of the world and if such a resolutioncomes up in the House, I shall vote for it providing, ofcourse, that the Jewish people are favorable to the ideaof being classified as a separate people . That is to say,I shall be guided by the wishes of the Jewish peoplethemselves ."

(Signed) "H. A. BARNHART."

By Representative George K. Denton,Of Indiana .

"I am heartily in sympathy with the official declara-tions of England, France, and Italy, on the Zionist ques-tion, and I am in favor of action by the United StatesGovernment in line with the British declaration, and Ithink that Congress should adopt a proper resolution infavor of the establishment of such a Jewish nationalcentre.

"I think the efforts of the Jewish people to establishsuch a home are very commendable ."

(Signed) "GEo . K. DENTON."101

Understand-ing ofZionismInsuresSupport .

Guided byWishes ofJews.

FavorsGovernmentAction.

Effort .Commendable

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Louis W. Fairfield,Of Indiana.

A Country

"I am heartily in favor of the action taken by thefor Every British, French, and Italian Governments, favoring aRace .Jewish State in Palestine . To me the Jewish people arein many ways the most wonderful in the world . Theyare a race without a country, save by adoption . In theeternal fitness of things every race should have a countryunless it is willing to lose its identity to that country inwhich it may happen to be resident .

Would

"Any expression by the United States Governmentsupport

that would not commit it to a maintenance of a JewishResoSy anof sympathy. State by force of arms would meet with my approval .of

pAn expression in Congress favorable to the establish-ment of a national Jewish center which would be theexpression of a kindly feeling toward that enterprisewould receive my indorsement ."

(Signed) "Louis W. FAIRFIELD ."

By Representative Merrill Moores,Of Indiana .

Palestine "I have always favored the establishment of a JewishHome of nation, and have believed that the proper location ofJewish such a nation would be in Palestine. I am glad to knowNation.

that our British, French and Italian allies have madesolemn declaration favoring such re-establishment .

Palestine

"It is especially fitting that the people whose geniusespecially

made Palestine the birthplace of the highest religiousFitting for thought, should occupy the land consecrated by the livesJews .

and service of two Jews, Moses, the most eminent of alllaw-givers and Jesus the Christ, the greatest of allteachers.

To Be

"The return of the Holy Land to its ancient peopleDesired by under a constitution guaranteeing full and complete po-Au Nations. litical and religious liberty would promise that what isnow desert would become an earthly paradise, wouldaccord with the best sentiment and tradition of Jew andChristian alike and would be a happy outcome of awicked war, most earnestly to be desired and approvedby all nations ."

(Signed) "MERRiLL MooREs."

102

s ne American war congress ana zsonism

By Representative Albert H. Vestal,Of Indiana.

"I am unreservedly and unequivocally in favor of the Pittsburgh

official Declarations of our Allies for a Jewish Centre in ProgramAccords

Palestine. I am in entire accord with the principles laid withdown by the Zionists of the world at Basle and especially Americanwith those ideals enunciated at the last convention of the ideals.

Zionists of America held in Pittsburgh. These principlesand ideals are, in my opinion, based to a great degreeupon those laid down by the founders of this Republic,and I venture to state that it will be these very principlesupon which the Republic of Judea will be founded . Itis with this end in view, I believe, that President Wilsonhas expressed himself as favoring the government .I, therefore, favor this Zionist tendency on the part of theJews of the world and hope that, in all events, theoppressed members of the Jewish faith will be reinstatedin their former homeland which must become a restoredland to the valiant Crusaders of the Allied Armies, includ-ing the Jewish Legion, who are battling the Turks on thissacred territory.

"With the boys of America fighting as one, soldiers Act ofof all races and religions, waging battle against the com- Justice .mon foe, it is only an act of justice, an expression ofhumanity, and a sacred duty on the part of the Christianworld to restore a homeland to our oppressed brethren,the Jews . This duty, I deem, is especially in line withthe democratic and liberal ideals of the United States.

"Because of the fact that the descendants of the old ConsistentJewish nation are today the only people without a coun- with War-

tr and et the only

with ever country, it appears F r ofY

Y

people

Y

Freeeedomevident that recognition of their loyalty, their bravery, and Justice .their sense of justice, and their grim determination toadminister justice, be accorded them if we are to be con-sistent in our appeal to freedom and justice of the world.`Fighting for Freedom' is the motto of the Allies, andunder this flag we will conquer. Let us, therefore, giveto the Jews that which is their own . Many of them, par.ticularly in free countries, will undoubtedly prefer toremain where they have migrated to, which will indeedbe of benefit to those lands .

103

The American War Congress and ZionismFavorsResolution.

Friend-PledgesHelp.

ApprovesDeclara-tions .FavorsAction.

"These sentiments that I have expressed speak in clearterms as to my future actions, if necessary, in behalf ofthis Zionist movement. Now that President Wilson hasfollowed the lead of the Allies for the Jewish Homelandin Palestine, I think it proper and advisable that therepresentatives of the American people express them-selves to the same effect through an appropriate resolu-tion . I am in favor of this proposition because of theunqualified loyalty and bravery of the Jewish young menwho have donned the armor of the Allies and who aremaking the supreme sacrifice upon the blood-stainedfi Ids of France, Belgium, Italy, Turkey, and all of theother fronts."

(Signed) "ALBERT H. VESTAL."

By Representative Fred S. Purnell,Of Indiana.

"I am in hearty sympathy with the declarations ofEngland, France and Italy on this question.

"We are now engaged in the greatest struggle of allthe ages, the avowed purpose of which is to make theworld safe for people to live in . We are trying to helpthose who heretofore have not been able to help them-selves . Nothing would seem more fitting than to assistthe Jewish people in the accomplishment of their desireof the ages, namely to have a flag of their own and to bea people with some semblance of national identity.

"I shall gladly vote and work for a resolution inCongress for the establishment in Palestine of a JewishNational Center."

(Signed) "FRED S. PURNELL."

By Representative Everett Sanders,Of Indiana .

"I approve the British declaration favoring the re-establishment of the Jewish Homeland in Palestine .

"I favor appropriate action by the democratic govern-ments to effect the practical consummation of the abovedeclaration ."

(Signed) "EVERETT SANDERS."

104

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative William R. Wood,Of Indiana .

"I sincerely hope that one of the compensations grow- Propering out of this world war will be the taking of Palestine of Palestine.forever away from the possession and control of theTurkish Empire. If this is done, the natural thing, andin my opinion, the proper thing in the reconstructionplan, would be to provide some scheme whereby thiswhole land could be reinhabited by the Jewish people ;thus bringing to a happy realization the dream and theestablishment of this world old race . Palestine couldthus be made an asylum for the oppressed and would nolonger be the fertile field of a tyrannical oppressor ."

(Signed) "WM. R. WOOD ."

By Representative William R . Green,Of Iowa .

"The recent victories of the British Army and thesuccess of the Allies elsewhere, will undoubtedly deliverPalestine from Turkish rule, and I should be very gladindeed to have a homeland established for the Jewishpeople in that country, in accordance with the declara-tions of the Allies .

"I trust that nothing will happen which will preventthe plans of the Zionists from being carried out to a suc-cessful conclusion . You have my best wishes ."

(Signed) "W. R. GREEN.

105

WishesJewishHomelandEstablished.

NothingMustPrevent.


PalestineBest forJewishState .

Let JewsDevelopNationally.

Interestsnot An-tagonisticto Our Own .

AmericaShould En-dorse andAssistMovement.

By Representative Harry E . Hull,Of Iowa .

"If the Jewish people desire to establish an inde-pendent sovereignty in Palestine, the Allied nationsshould aid them in accomplishing this object . The Jewslong since have established their worthiness to have acountry they can call home and there could be no morefitting place for them to reunite as a race than in thatancient land from which they sprang .

"The Jewish race has occupied a position in the his-tory of the world peculiar to itself . Although its peopleshave had no country where sentiment could be unified andnational pride developed, they have maintained theircharacteristics and have proven virile factors in all ofthe nations to which they have been attached . Give thema sovereignty of their own and they would have the op-portunity to develop nationally as they have never hadsince the ancient days of the race .

"I am in sympathy with the Declarations made bythe British, French, and Italian governments . I take itfrom the public utterances of the Honorable Arthur J .Balfour of England, that the object is to create an inde-pendent government for the Jews and the mere fact thatthese Allied countries have sanctioned such a movementinsures to the world that no nation would be establishedwhose interests would be inimical to our own .

"I believe the United States should heartily endorsethe movement and lend its active aid to see that this endis attained . I believe that some comprehensive planshould be outlined so that when the final summing upshall come in this great war, Palestine shall be turnedover to the Jewish people so that it can become one of thegreat national democracies of the world ."

(Signed) "HARRY E. HULL."

106

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Horace M . Towner,Of Iowa .

"I most heartily and unreservedly approve the Zion-ist movement and endorse the declarations of England,France, and Italy recently made, favoring the proposi-tions.

"Ever since I first heard of the aspirations of the Jew-ish people in this regard, I have given it my heartiest andmost sympathetic approval. To rid the Holy Land of theMoslem rule, and to restore the sacred soil to the peoplewho made it sacred should appeal to every man wholoves justice and hates oppression and persecution .

"I am in favor, by such means as would be appro-priate, of placing the United States in line with theaction already taken by Great Britain, France and Italy .As the action taken by those governments was not theaction of their parliaments, I am not sure that a resolu-tion of Congress would be appropriate action. But what-ever would be the proper procedure, I will favor it. Ithink it would be advisable to consult the President andthe Secretary of State as to the matter.

"No one who is in sympathy with the cause of theAllies but must have felt a thrill of gratitude and exulta-tion when the news came of the expulsion of the Turksand the triumphant entry of the Allies into Jerusalem .Americans without regard to race will rejoice when theglad hour shall come, as come it surely will, when undera protectorate of the nations, the Jews shall again regainand forever occupy their old home, Palestine, that holdsso much of the reverence and love of mankind ."

(Signed) "H. M. TowlvER."

307

Unreserv-edlyEndorsesZionism.

AlwaysApprovedMovement.

FavorsAppropriateAction.

Let Sympa-thizers withthe AlliesRejoice.


For Rehabi-litation ofSmallPeoples.

ForAutonomousGovernmentin Palestine .For Euro-pean Jews.

By Representative Frank P . Woods,Of Iowa.

"I do not see any possible objection that can be madeby any American against the British declaration favoringa Jewish State in the Holy land . It seems to me that itwould guarantee equal political status to Jews in anyother country. I believe that the Jewish people as aresult of this war ought to regain their nationality . Ithoroughly believe that an independent Jewish Stateshould be established in the land of their ancestors . Asidefrom the strong sentimental reasons for establishing sucha state I believe there are many practical reasons for theproject. I have always favored and supported the prin-ciples underlying the movement for the rehabilitation ofsmall nationalities and shall feel it my duty to supportthis cause whenever given an opportunity ."

(Signed) "FRANK P. WOODS."

By Representative Daniel R. Anthony, Jr.,Of Kansas .

"I am in favor of the establishment of an autonomousgovernment in Palestine to be administered by the peopleof that country.

"As far as a Jewish Homeland is concerned such aproject might be feasible for the Jews in Europe, butthe Jewish citizens of the United States are so firmlyestablished here and are so desirable as American citizensthat I cannot conceive of any extensive colonization ofPalestine from America ."

(Signed) "D. R . ANTHONY, JR."

108

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative W. A. Ayres,Of Kansas .

"Like President Wilson, I firmly believe in the rightsof smaller nations, or nationalities rather, because I be-lieve they have a right to make and determine their ownfuture destiny . A people, regardless of race or religion,should be able to claim some definite territory as theirdomain, or their native land.

"The Jewish people have given to history many emi-nent men and women, not only during the early period ofthe history of the world but since modern civilization hassprung up, and I feel that the Jewish people of todaywill feel that they have a spot-a place they can call theirland, if the plans of the Zionists are carried out .

"I heartily approve the declarations of England,France and Italy in the matter of the establishment of anational home for Jewish people in Palestine, for thereasons that I have just given, and I believe our AmericanGovernment should favor the indorsements given to thismove by our sister countries, and should so show itsinterest, by the introduction of a resolution in theNational Congress .

"I am sure that a Jewish nation established in historicold Palestine will result in blessing and benefit to everyJew of today and by the formation of a national home forthe Jews, a better understanding and co-operation willcome about with all the established nations of the world ."

(Signed) "W. A. AYRES."

By Representative Philip P. Campbell,Of Kansas .

"I strongly sympathize with the important movementhaving for its object the establishment of a Jewish Home-land in Palestine, in accordance with the official declara-tions of England, France and Italy, and my best wishesgo out for the success of those who are devoting theirefforts toward that end ."

(Signed) "PHILIP P. CAMPBELL.

109

Self-De-terminationof Nation-alities.

A Land forthe Jews .

FavorsGovernmentAction .

Will InsureBetter Un-derstandingwithEstablishedNations.

StronglySympathizeswithMovement .


Unanimousfor JewishNationalAspiration.

Ungratefulnot to AidZionisth.

By Representative Guy T. Helvering,Of Kansas.

"In company with all Americans I have rejoiced inthe recent triumphs which have given assurance of theredemption of Palestine, and I believe that the practicallyunanimous sentiment of America and her Allies is thatadvantage should be taken of the opportunity to forwardthe national and beneficial aspirations of the Jewishpeople . With that sentiment I am in hearty accord .

"Every student of American history is aware of thegreat contributions made to the progress of our countryby the children of Zion . In war they have given to usfreely of their blood and treasure and in peace they havebeen equally patriotic in every movement destined toadvance the best interests of the country . Therefore, wewould indeed be ungrateful did we not wish to aid them,now when the time and the opportunity is here to gratifytheir desire to regain the land of their fathers and therebuild up a government which will be their own, in thebest sense of one which will be a valuable addition to thefamily of nations. That this result may soon be achievedis my hope and my belief."

(Signed) "Guy T. HELVERING."

110

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Edward C . Little,Of Kansas .

"I approve of the official Declarations of England,France and Italy. Why? Because the Jewish peoplehave the same right to a national organization as anypeople, indeed, the miraculous way in which they havemaintained themselves for centuries scattered over theearth emphasizes the equity of granting them that nation-ality. Furthermore, the loyalty of the Jewish-Americanpeople to this country has been such that they are entitledto every consideration from our nation .

"I would favor an appropriate resolution by Congressexpressing the principles of Zionism .

"During my visit to Jerusalem, a quarter of a centuryago, I rode from Hebron to the Holy Land . As the nightfell I stopped at the tomb of Rachael and watched the lastrays of the sun decline beyond the hills of Judea, andever since there has been fixed in my mind that tombwhich for centuries had been held sacred by Jews, Mo-hammedans, and Christians-the mother of your greatrace. I would like to see a returned Judea, with a splen-did monument erected at that modest sepulchre, to typifythe world's respect for her whom Jacob buried by thewayside on the road to Bethlehem ."

(Signed) "E . C. LITTLE."

Right ofNationalismInherent inEveryPeople.

ForCongressResolution.Land Mustbe Restoredto Jews.


FreePeopleFavor Dec-laration .

ApprovesRestoration .

RecognizesJustice ofClaim.

By Representative James C . Cantrill,Of Kentucky.

"The action of the British Government favoring theestablishment in Palestine of a national home for theJewish people will meet with the approval of all freepeople in all parts of the world . I have read with muchinterest and profit the Zionists' publications, and heartilyendorse them in every way."

(Signed) "J . C. CANTRILL."

By Representative Swagar Sherley,Of Kentucky.

"I should be very glad to see the Jewish people estab-lish a homeland in Palestine."

(Signed) "SWAGAR SHERLEY ."

By Representative H. Garland Dupre,Of Louisiana.

"I may say in a general way that I am in sympathywith the Zionist Movement, and hope that in the adjust-ment of post-war conditions the historic and just claimsof Palestine to recognition will not be overlooked by ourown country and our Allies ."

(Signed) "H. GARLAND DuPRE."

112

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Albert Estopinal,Of Louisiana.

"It seems to me most natural and plausible that theZionist movement should meet with the earnest approvalof the leading statesmen of the world . The recent Dec-laration of their intention of assisting it physically aswell as morally is only in keeping with one of the vastand noble aims of this war, to wit: self-determination andself-government for the oppressed and dispersed of theearth .

"The plan of reuniting the Jewish race under a gov-ernment all their own in the very land which was oncetheirs and of which they were despoiled by a barbarousconqueror is a lofty one . It merits our individual sym-pathy and co-operation . It deserves in every way theconfidence and support of the great governments andtheir peoples who are now waging against Teutonic andTurkish oppressor this war of liberation and justice .

"The Jews themselves should be a unit in approvingand applauding so momentous a step. It is in fact atribute paid by civilization to that spirit of homogenityand racial affinity which is theirs and on which is basedthe effort of moulding into self-governing units the frag-ments of dismembered nations .

"However separated by time, distance, and customthe individual Jew may be from his brother, their bloodand their ideals have remained unchanged after centuriesof suffering and abuse, and their desire (an ancient one)to get together betokens an aim on their part potentialwith great and happy possibilities .

"I heartily endorse the declarations of Great Britain,France and Italy as recently expressed looking towardthe foundation of a free and independent Hebrew nationand will do all that lies in me to make it a reality ."

(Signed) "ALBERT ESTOPINAL."

113

One ofWar's Aims .

LoftyMovement-DeservesCo-opera-tion .

UnitedJewryShouldApprove .

JewishIdeals HaveRemainedUnchanged.

Will AidIn Establlsb-ment ofNation.


FavorsDeclaration.Duty ofAmerica toAssist .

For JewishWelfare.

By Representative Whitmell P. Martin,Of Louisiana.

"I beg to state that the plan of the British Declara-tion meets with my entire approval .

"The Jewish people of this country have respondedmost promptly and notably in the prosecution of thiswar, and I deem it the duty of this country to facilitate inevery way the achievement of the object and purposeof the Zionists in the establishment of a National Homefor the Jewish people ." (Signed) "W. P. MARTIN."

By Representative John T. Watkins,Of Louisiana.

"I take great interest and have much friendship forthe Jews, and anything which may be conducive to theirwelfare, happiness and prosperity meets with my mosthearty approval and sincere approbation ."

(Signed) "J. T. WATKINS ."

By Representative Louis B . Goodall,Of Maine .

National

"I favor the establishment of a Jewish homeland inHome Ad-vantageous.Palestine . I think it a good plan for the Jewish people. to have a country which will be to them a NationalFavors

Home, and which will be their refuge when persecutedAction by by other nations.Executive "I should be glad to see action by our Government,and Congress. and a resolution in Congress, favoring these principles .Interests "I think the Jews all over the world should be in-all Jews .

tensely interested in establishing a National Home."(Signed) "Louis B . GooDALL."

114

i ne American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Wallace H. White, Jr.,Of Maine .

"The desire of the Jewish people to re-establish theJewish nation in Palestine, the land of their origin, andthe endorsement of the movement to this end voiced byEngland, France, Italy and by many leaders of thoughtin this country meet with my approval. What may becalled racial instinct inheres in every people but it hasnever seen more persistent expression than by the Jews .Through many centuries representatives of the racehave made a powerful impression upon the business,the social and the political thought and life of everyother nation. It is surely an anomaly that such a raceshould be without nationality .

"It seems to me that the plan proposed should re-ceive at some appropriate time the approval of thisGovernment. I hope that through the kindly offices ofthe nations of the world supplementing the efforts ofJewish people themselves, Palestine may be restoredto them and a Jewish nation with national ideals, hopesand aspirations may be founded ."

(Signed) "WALLACE H. WHITE, JR ."

By Representative Charles P . Coady.Of Maryland .

"I approve the Declarations of England, France andItaly on the Zion question, and my reasons are similarto those expressed by the governments mentioned .

"I would like to see action on this question eitherby the Executive or by Congress .

"I view with favor the efforts of the Jewish peopleto establish a national home in Palestine. This mattershould, however, be determined by the Jewish peoplethemselves, and their desires in this respect shouldgovern."

(Signed) "CHARLES P. CoADY."

115

UntilRestorationJewishPositionAnomalous.

Hopes to SeeGovernmentAction.

ApprovesDeclara-tions.

FavorsGovernmentAction.For Self-Determina-tion .


Justice atlast forJews .

ZionismSolution ofJewishProblem.

!dead=Willing toh=elp inCongress.

By Representative Jesse D. Price,Of Maryland .

"The declarations for a Jewish Homeland in Palestineby the British, French and Italian Governments as wellas the sympathetic letter of President Wilson on the Zion-ist movement comprise some of the most important devel-opments in the history of this war . It is undoubtedly thegreatest event in the diaspora of the Jews in the last twothousand years. It indicates once for all that world con-sciousness has finally taken a fair attitude regarding theJewish problem . It is with the greatest gratification thatI have learned of these events in the last year .

"There have been many ways proposed to solve themuch perplexed Jewish question. However, very fewleaders in Europe, outside perhaps of the Jews themselves,struck upon the idea that the only original and real endto this problem, and its most satisfactory solution, restsnot in charity or even freedom and equality among na-tions but in the re-establishment of the old Kingdom ofJudea where the Jews may be allowed to solve theirown problems and take an interest in the welfare of theJews elsewhere . It is thus another glad sign of the timesthat we have come to realize the true significance of thisZionist movement . It is now practically universallyaccepted not only among the Jews of the world but amongChristians and even Mohammedans .

"I am glad that the President of the United States, thegreat Executive of this free republic, has seen fit to ex-press his great interest in this Jewish movement, thusalso speaking in the name of the American people .

"As far as I am concerned, I shall be glad to aid therealization of the solution to this problem in whatevermethod that I may be in position to participate in . Judg-ing from past experiences, I am sure that the AmericanCongress, should it become necessary and advisable, willspeak its thoughts for Zionism, even as it did during thetime of the abrogation of the Russian Treaty . This may,perhaps, not be necessary for it is possible that the ques-tion will be settled by the conferees at the peace table infavor of the Jews without any further trouble ."

(Signed) "JESSE D. PRICE."116

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Frederick N. Zihlman,Of Maryland .

"I beg to say that the Jewish people have such a won-derful record as a race, and they certainly deserve theassistance of the Great Powers to show their powers ofself-government .

"If the Jewish people themselves desire to establish agovernment in Palestine, such as has been suggested Iam in favor of lending our national influence towardsuch a movement .

"Trusting this is satisfactory, I beg to remain,(Signed) "F. N. ZIHLMAN."

By Representative Frederick W. Dallinger.Of Massachusetts.

"I am heartily in favor of the declaration of ourAllies upon the Zionist question .

"I believe that Palestine which is so dear to religiouspeople all over the world, should be forever freed fromTurkish rule and should be granted an independent gov-ernment under the protection of the civilized nations ofthe earth.

"While action on the part of our government ought tocome in the first instance from the Executive, neverthe-less, I favor the adoption of a resolution by Congressexpressing the views of our national legislators in favorof the establishment of a national center of the Jewishrace in the Holy land ."

(Signed) "FREDERICK W. DALLINGER."

117

PowersShould HelpSecure Self-Governmentto Jews .

FavorsDeclaration .

KeepPalestineFree fromTurks.

ForCongressResolution.


RestorationWill SecureSelf-Ex-pression toJewishIdealists.

ZionistPrinciplesCoincidewithAmerican.

For Actionby Execu-tive andLegislature.

By Representative James A. Gallivan,Of Massachusetts .

"Those who are even slightly acquainted with mywork in Congress all these years in behalf of the Jewsand other oppressed and small nationalities, will clearlyunderstand my attitude on the question of a Jewish home-land in Palestine as pronounced by the governments ofGreat Britain, France and Italy . I have been interestedin the Zionist movement for many years and have ex-pressed my sentiments in its favor on many occasionseven before our Allied Governments issued their declara-tion . I am, therefore, unqualifiedly in favor of thoseofficial declarations, and am ready to go even furtherand state that I desire to see Palestine re-established asan independent Jewish state where the great Jewish ideal-ists may be in a position to preach their doctrine to theworld unmolested. The British declaration is merely apractical consummation of the true and lofty principleunderlying the entire Zionist movement .

"I know that the great Jewish leaders of America,the true loyal Americans of Jewish faith, are givingtheir heart and soul to this noble cause. The Zionistsof America may truly be proud to have in their midstsuch persons as Justice Brandeis, Rabbi Wise, JudgeMack, Professor Frankfurter, Mrs. Fels, and numerousothers just as worthy, which space does not permit toenumerate. The principles of Zionism in many ways,it appears to me, coincide with the principles of Americaand when these democratic principles, as laid down byPresident Wilson, will be realized, then we pray andhope that the Zionist principles will also becomeactualities .

"I firmly believe that our Government ought to takethe same attitude on this Zionist question as was takenby the other Allied Governments. I do not doubt thatsuch will be the action of the United States wheneverthe proper moment will arrive . The explicit and un-qualified indorsement by President Wilson for thesmall nationalities of the world make this step in thefuture almost a certainty . I also believe that Congress

118

The American War Congress and Zionismought to pass an appropriate resolution expressing itssympathies and support with the Zionist principles andthe British declaration for a Jewish centre in the HolyLand, in the land of Israel ."

(Signed) "JAi,IEs A. GALLIVAN."

By Representative Alvan T. Fuller,Of Massachusetts .

"Without knowing much about the details of theZionist movement I can say unqualifiedly that I am infavor of it . In view of the fact that the Jewish peopleare so discriminated against and because they, as theBible declares, are His chosen people, and He chose aJewish woman to be the Mother of His only son, it ismy conviction that the Jewish race is entitled to thisconsideration.

"I am proud that at this time when our nation isfighting for the rights of smaller nationalities to saythat I am heartily in favor of action on this question bythe United States, and will be pleased to vote for anappropriate resolution by Congress to establish a JewishNational Centre in the House .

"I am glad of the opportunity to express my viewson this matter."

(Signed) "ALvAN T. FULLER."

By Representative Frederick H . Gillett,Of Massachusetts .

"It seems to me most fitting that Palestine, to whichnearly all the people of the civilized world turn witha sentiment of reverence, should again be under thecontrol of her native people, whose dispersion hasbeen the means of bringing home to all the nationsamong whom they have been scattered their brilliantqualities of organization and thrift and indomitableenergy and capacity for achievement . I hope the Zion-ist program will be successfully carried out, as it willgratify both the sentiment and sound judgment of theworld ."

(Signed) "FREDERICK H. GILLETr"

119

Jews En-titled toConsidera-tion.

War Foughtfor SmallNationalities .

RealizationWill GivePlay toCapacity forAchieve-met.

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative William S . Greene,Of Massachusetts .

Are Entitled

"I approve of the official Declaration of England,to

Fullest

France and Italy on the Zionist question .ties as a

"My reasons are that I think the Jewish populationLaw-Abiding throughout the world have shown great courage andPeople .

loyalty to their faith, and to their people, under theReasons for most trying circumstances and hardship . Palestine isApproval.

their Fatherland and they are entitled to the fullestprotection there, in order that they may enjoy therights both civil and religious that law abiding peoplethroughout the world are entitled to .

For

"I think the United States Government should joinAction byUnited

hands with the Allied Governments in making the BritishStates .

declaration effective at the earliest moment .For

"I am in favor of the adoption of an appropriate reso-Congress

lution by Congress in favor of the establishment in Pales-Resolution . tine of a Jewish National Centre .Zionism

"I believe the efforts of the Jewish people to establishShould be a National Home in Palestine should be encouraged . IEncouraged.

FavorsRealizationof Move-ment .

favor it heartily as a measure of justice, and memorial totheir breadth of spirit during their long years of trialand persecution . (Signed) "WILLIAMS. GREENE."

By Representative George Holden Tinkham,Of Massachusetts.

"I approve the British Declaration favoring the re-establishment of the Jewish Homeland in Palestine andwould like to see this movement realized ."

(Signed) "GEORGE HOLDEN TINKHAM ."

120

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Wilfred W. Lufkin,Of Massachusetts .

"I am very glad to endorse the movement for theadoption by the United States of the declarations of Eng-land, France and Italy in favor of the establishment inPalestine of a National Home for the Jewish people .

"The history of the accomplishments of the Jews dur-ing the past two thousand years under the most tryingconditions with which any race has ever been obliged tocontend, speaks for itself. The conduct and progress ofthe race in our own Republic in recent years is furtherevidence of the character of the people and their abilityto conserve their best traditions, even under the mostadverse circumstances .

"This war is being fought for the purpose of liftingthe yoke of oppression and tyranny from every nationand race and of making this old world of ours a betterand a happier abode for all mankind . When the timefor re-establishment and reorganization arrives, I canthink of no more righteous result of this terrible conflictthan the restoration to the Jews of their old home, whichthey once presided over with such grace, refinement, dig-nity and efficiency . Moreover, such action will likewisebring about the greatly desired result, of making impos-sible a repetition of Turkish rule with all its horrorsover the Palestine of the future.

"I shall gladly favor in the House of Representativesthe passage of a resolution favoring the establishment ofsuch a Jewish National Center in Palestine and I wishyou the utmost success in your very worthy movement."

(Signed) "W. W. LUFKIN."

121

For Ameri-can In-dorsement.

History ofJewsSpeaks forItself .

War Foughtto Lift Yokeof Op-pression .

FavorsCongressResolution .


Enthusiasticover Dec-larations.

American-ism andZionismSimilarExpressions .

GladAmericanJewry isZionistic.

By Representative Richard Olney,Of Massachusetts .

"I am very glad to express my approval, in fact myenthusiasm, for the official Declarations by our Alliedcountries in favor of a Jewish Homeland in Palestine .I was especially delighted to read the letter of PresidentWilson in which he expresses much interest in the Zionistmovement, not only in the United States, but all over theworld.

"The purposes of Zionism, the return to Palestine ofmany of its former original inhabitants, has exceptionalpossibilities for many Jews in less favored countries . Thedemocratic principles, as outlined by the Zionist leadersof America, may be said in part not only to include thegenuine American ideals and desires, but also to sup-plement these lofty thoughts . Americanism and Zionism,when both are clearly understood and rightly pursued,express a common cause from many viewpoints .

"I am glad to see that American Jewry has awakenedto its task and duties to extend a helping hand for theestablishment of a Jewish State for so many of theirunfortunate brethren, as well as a spiritual centre forthe Jews all over the world . As an American, and as abeliever in the principles laid down by America and itsAllies, in this world war, I shall be pleased to aid in therealization of the cause of Zionism ."

(Signed) "RICHARD OLNEY."

122

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Allen T. Treadway,Of Massachusetts.

"It is with pleasure that I endorse the statement ofSenator Henry Cabot Lodge* in which he so heartilyapproves the declarations of England, France and Italyon the Zionist question. I wish the Jewish people allsuccess in their undertaking to establish a National Homein Palestine."

(Signed) "ALLEN T. TREADWAY."

By Representative Calvin D . Paige,Of Massachusetts.

"The history of the Jews is perhaps richer in highromance than that of any other people and from thatpoint of view, if from no other, the re-establishment ofthis great race in the cradle land of its origin and of itsgreat contributions to the religion and civilization of theworld, would be one of the normal and logical conse-quences of the winning of the world war by the Allies .

"I am very glad to endorse the broad visioned declara-tion of the Right Honorable Arthur James Balfour, theBritish Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, in behalfof his government, and that has been affirmed by thegovernments of France and Italy, and I hope soon to seeour own government make a declaration in accord withthat of our great European Allies .

"The persecution of the Jews has been a disgrace toand blot upon the history of civilization . The oppor-tunity and occasion are seemingly both at hand when thisvirile people shall and can have its historic home restoredto its charge and keeping, with all that that implies, outof the rich inspiration of its history and achievements."

(Signed) "CALVIN D. PAIGE."

* See statement by Senator Lodge, page 43 .

123

IndorsesLodgeStatement.

LogicalResult ofVictory .

SupportsBritishStatement.

Restorationnow inSight.



Jews LogicalGuardians ofCountry.

ApprovesDeclara-tions.

GripsImagination.

Faith InUnitedstatesGovernment.

Support ofAll America .

By Representative John J. Rogers,Of Massachusetts.

"I cordially approve the official Declarations of theGovernments of England, France and Italy, on the ques-tion of a Jewish Homeland in the Holy Land .

"I am convinced that the time has come when justicemust be rendered to the Jew, not in any charitable or hap-hazard fashion, but on broad and permanent lines . Thismay best be rendered by the re-establishment of the Jewsin Palestine . This land was that of the birth of theirnation, their culture, and their religion . They are, there-fore, the logical people to guard and control that countrywhere the sacred treasures of Christianity as well as ofJudaism are found . The Zionists of the world, in accord-ance with the British Declaration, should do nothing toprejudice the civil and religious rights of the non-Jewishpopulation in Palestine . (Signed) "JOHN J . ROGERS."

By Representative William W . Venable,Of Massachusetts.

"I am glad to give my approval and consent to thedeclarations for Zionism and the Jewish homeland inPalestine as officially issued by the British, French andItalian Governments .

"The idea of the re-establishment of a Jewish govern-ment is one that grips the imagination and it is one thatappeals to me as a matter of sentiment .

"As to the advisability of our government issuing adeclaration similar in character to those of France, Italyand Great Britain, I am unable to say at this time . I amconfident, however, that at the proper time our govern-ment will do the proper thing.

"As I understand it, the Zionist movement is an effortto accomplish one of the great ideals of a great race . Assuch it will receive the approval and endorsement as wellas support of the people of America ."

(Signed) "W. W. VENABLE."

124


By Representative Joseph Walsh,Of Massachusetts.

"It would seem to me to be most fitting that a Na-tional Home for the Jewish people be established atPalestine, not to interfere with the rights of non-Jewishprecincts in that land, nor to prejudice the rights of theJewish people residing in other nations . No more ap-propriate spot could be selected for this long hoped forresult. The Jewish people have played a prominent partin the world's history, and in the upbuilding of everyland. They have realized what freedom, as guaranteedby our government means, and in the historic land ofPalestine, so linked with the early history of the Jewishpeople, it would, as I have said, seem peculiarly appro-priate that they be secured a National home.

(Signed) "JOSEPH WALSH."

125

Jews Under-stand FreeGovernment .


PalestineBelongs toJews .

Of Benefitto Worldbut Essen-tial to Jews .

Will SupportCongressResolution.

By Representative Samuel W . Beakes,Of Michigan .

"I know that the American people of non-Jewish per-suasion were just as pleased as were the American Jewishpeople, or as were the Jews all over the world when thenews reached us that England had captured Palestinefrom the Turks, and later that England had promised tohelp the restoration of the Jewish nation on that land .It has been a constant source of regret to all of us thatPalestine has remained in the hands of the Turks for solong. We shall now be glad to do anything to restoreit to those who have been driven out of the Holy Landand who have suffered through persecution in other lands .This cause for the establishment of a Jewish State in Pa-lestine ought to be pleasing to Americans .

"I should not hesitate to say that the principles under-lying Zionism are just and praiseworthy from every angle,and should get the indorsement, if not indeed the supportof the Jews and non-Jews alike. I am, therefore, gladto have this pleasant opportunity to give my unqualifiedsupport to the official Declarations of England, Franceand Italy. I hold this movement to be essential to theJewish people and one that would prove beneficial to theentire civilized world .

"I would be glad to vote for a proper resolutionembodying the thoughts I have just expressed, if broughtup in Congress, especially if this resolution will have thesanction of the State Department, as I believe it is boundto have ."

(Signed) "SAMUEL W. BEAKES."

126

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Gilbert A. Currie,Of Michigan.

"Please convey to the Zionists of America my entire Supfour ports

ssympathy and indorsement of the Declaration made by Declaration.the Honorable Arthur J . Balfour, Secretary of State forForeign Affairs, in the name of the English Government,favoring the establishment in Palestine of a nationalhome for the Jewish people. I see every reason for sup-porting this Declaration because I am anxious to aidin the just solution of the much vexed Jewish problem .It seems to me that the establishment of the Jewish statein their ancient home will, more than anything else,bring about the proper solution. It is particularlygratifying to note that this Declaration makes the distinctstipulation that `nothing shall be done which may preju-dice the civil and religious rights of non-Jewish com-munities in Palestine, or the rights and political statusenjoyed by Jews in any other country .'

"I agree with you that in view of President Wilson's SRig lis of

utterances in favor of the rights of all small nationalities Nationali-which are to be given the opportunity of determining ties" Includestheir own futures, it is fair and proper, in fact abso- Jewish

lutely necessary, that the Jews be given this right and be People.

accorded these privileges. Accordingly, I should beglad to cast my vote for and support an appropriateresolution that may be introduced in Congress purport-ing these ends.

"I am fully aware of the fact that only a very small SoPrideu too fpercentage of the American Jews will return to their All Jews.ancient national home in Palestine, nor is it necessaryor desirable that American Jews should return. How-ever, for those who will return from other countries itsurely will be a blessing and the realization of a life-longdream, and to those who will remain in those countrieswhere they have already become acclimatized, it will un-doubtedly cause much pride and happiness to know thatonce for all the Jewish flag is to wave in the historicCity of Jerusalem ." (Signed) "GILBERT A. CuRRIE."


A WelcomeOpportunityto RealizeNationalAspirations.

UnhamperedSpiritualDevelopmentfor AllPeoples.CongressResolutionWould beAppropriate .

By Representative Frank E Doremus,Of Michigan .

"I have carefully read the declaration of HonorableArthur J . Balfour, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairsof the British Government, and am pleased to give it mycordial approval . I am in hearty sympathy with theefforts of the Jewish people to establish a nationaldomicile in Palestine, subject, of course to the limita-tion that nothing be done which would be prejudicial tothe civil and religious rights of non-Jewish people residenttherein . While many Jews who have acquired honor,distinction, and fortune in America will desire to con-tinue their residence among us, the consummation of thisvery worthy project would afford a welcome oppor-tunity to all those who desire to realize this nationalaspiration."

(Signed) "FRANK E. DOREMUS."

By Representative Joseph W. Fordney,Of Michigan .

"I approve the declaration of England, France, andItaly, on the Zionist question. Because I wish everybody,all classes of people, to worship God according to thedictates of their conscience.

"I favor action by the United States Government inaccordance with the principles of Zionism. I believe theadoption of a resolution by Congress in favor of theestablishment in Palestine of a Jewish National Centrewould be appropriate, especially at this time ."

(Signed) "J . W. FORDNEY ."

128

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Edward L . Hamilton,Of Michigan.

"I am now writing this without adequate detailed in-formation before me as to just how much territory hasalready been occupied in Palestine under the stimulus ofthe Zionist Movement and how the problems of Govern-ment are purposed to be solved . My recollection is thata considerable fund was created some years ago, raisedlargely by contributions in small sums by Jews through-out the world, in aid of this movement ; that the fundis constantly increasing and that the Movement is achiev-ing substantial results in the purchase, occupation andimprovement of lands .

"The idea of a Jewish Homeland in Palestine has ap-pealed to me ever since I first read of the Zionist Move-ment. It has its practical aspects as furnishing a possiblesubstantial habitation, especially for those who have been yielsmdriven from their homes in Central Europe by the War, Appeal. .and it appeals to the imagination in ways that areobvious .

(Signed) "E. L. HAMILTON."

129

Achieve-ment. InLand Im-provement.


Zionism ofInterna-tionalImport.

ZionismConqueredPublicOpinion.

Revival ofHebrewInspiring .

By Representative Patrick H. Kelley,Of Michigan .

"With the Declaration of Great Britain in favor ofZionism, the first and most important official step for aJewish Homeland in Palestine was announced to theworld. Generally speaking, it brought forward the Jew-ish National movement as an international problem .Zionism was,, up to that time, known and seriously de-bated only among those who were interested in it becauseof racial or religious reasons ; it hardly stepped out ofthe gates of the Ghetto. This War has put this movementas one of the aims of the Allied powers, and widenedthe scope of Jewish Nationalism-it put it on an inter-national basis . Its principles have been officially ac-cepted by the United States, England, France, Italy, andour smaller allies .

"Zionism has apparently conquered public opinion inall liberal lands, among Jews and Gentiles . It appealsnot only to the idealism of the world, but also to itspolitical interests, economic possibilities, and culturalaspirations . The Zionist Declaration has much in storefor the free countries of the world, and, naturally, evenmore to the Jews of the world.

"I am told that Hebrew, the language of the prophets,is to be the official means of communication in the NewJewish State. This decision appeals very favorably toone's imagination-the revival of a language that hadbeen adjudged dead by many for so many centuries . Itis as inspiring even as the rebirth of the ancient land andpeople of Israel." (Signed) "PATRICK H. KELLEY."

130

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Harold Knutson,Of Minnesota.

"For several years I have followed quite closely themovement for the re-establishment of a Jewish state .I first became interested in the Zionist movement as astudent of political history, and in the course of time itbecame one of the subjects which I deemed worthy ofstudy. Under these conditions it is hardly necessary forme to say that I am absolutely and unqualifiedly in favorof the British, French and Italian Declarations for theestablishment of a Jewish center in the Holy Land . Per-sonally, I will go further to say that I would like to seecreated, in the ancient land of Israel, a free, independentand democratic Jewish republic wherein a goodly num-ber of Jews would enjoy the privileges and rights that somany of them were deprived of in their long history ofrepression and suppression . I feel that this will eventu-ally come about, perhaps at the end of this great war,which cannot but result in a better, freer and a moreperfect world.

"Why do I believe this? It is because I know thatthe Jews are a very strong and virile people who arebound to accomplish their long-cherished ambition .Their tenacity and resistance through all ages is shownclearly by their ability to remain and persist withoutbeing absorbed and assimilated in all these centuries,during which time so many other peoples and nationshave become lost and forgotten ; I am for this movementbecause the Jews have been looking forward to the re-establishment of Judea for many centuries ; they havebeen praying for it day after day ; they have been yearn-ing for their ancient home in their ancient land ; I amwith the Zionists, furthermore, because I believe that theformation of a Jewish state is the great, the greatestsingle settlement of the Jewish question which wouldhave its effects in Palestine and out of it .

131

UnqualifiedIndorsementby Studentof PoliticalHistory .

Beat Solu-tion ofProblem forJewsEverywhere.

The American War Congress and ZionismExtendSelf-Deter-minationPrinciple toJews.

ForCongressResolution.

By Representative Carl E. Mapes,Of Michigan.

Majority of

"In the determination of a question which relates soJewsFavorably distinctly to a certain race and affects its vital interestsInclined . to such an extent as the Zionist movement does the Jewish

race, the wishes of the people of that race ought to begiven paramount consideration . My information is thatthe great majority of the Jews everywhere favor theestablishment of a Jewish nation in Palestine as advo-cated by the Zionists. That does not mean, as I under-stand it, that they all desire to return to Palestine andbecome citizens of the proposed Jewish state, but ratherthat an opportunity may be given to those Jews who areoppressed or who may for any reason desire to do so toreturn to Palestine and become citizens of a country gov-erned by members of their own race and that their peoplemay once again have a distinct national existence . Everysentiment and feeling of justice to the Jewish race leadsone to favor the accomplishment of that purpose .

Will Support

"I am, therefore, glad to enroll myself as one inCongress

accord with the spirit of the declaration of the BritishResolution. government favoring the establishment in Palestine of a

National Home for the Jewish people in accordance withthe Zionist movement and I should be glad to support aresolution of similar import by the Congress of theUnited States."

(Signed) "CARL E. MAPES ."

"I sincerely hope that the Jews are to be included inPresident Wilson's promise that he would assist the smallnationalities to determine their own future and methodof living. I am absolutely in favor of these principlesas applied to the Jewish people and all other peopleswho are oppressed and persecuted.

"Finally, let me say, I am in favor of the passage byCongress of an appropriate resolution containing theideals above outlined ."

(Signed) "HAROLD KNUTSON ."

132

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Clarence B. Miller,Of Minnesota .

"I have all along been convinced that the question ofbuilding a Jewish State in Palestine should be decidedby the wishes of the Jews of the world . If the Jewsdesire to build a big Jewish State in Palestine, as itscenter, I am for the movement.

"A great Jewish nation established in the ancienthome of the Jews, would in the course of reasonable timebecome one of the powerful nations of the world, makingto the world a great contribution of literature, science,and economics. Personally, I should very much desireto see such a nation established . A strong nation, lo-cated there, would mark an end to Mohammedism andits like, and establish religious and economic feeling inthat old quarter of the world. International politicalresults would be important. I believe the other nationsof the world would greet such a new Jewish nation inan unusually friendly spirit ."

(Signed) "CLARENCE B. MILLER."

133

Will beGuided byDecision ofJews.

Social,Economicand ReligiousBenefits ofJewishRestoration.


JewishCivilizationResistedSurroundingIgnoranceandBarbarism.

Let the JewTurn HisFaceTowardJerusalem.

By Representative Thomas D . Schall,Of Minnesota .

"Being full of my four weeks' experience with theAmerican Forces at the Front, where I met with hun-dreds and hundreds of Jews, and realized the tremendousenthusiasm with which they are throughout the Americanline, fighting the world's battle, I am in proper tune toharmonize with the international anthem welling up inpraise of this long-delayed justice .

"For more than twenty centuries, the Jew has beenpersecuted because he feared the wrath of God more thanthat of man and loved truth more than life . They are apeople martyred for principle, because they hope to wearout the power to inflict by patient endurance of suffering .The history of their misery would fill volumes . AllEurope is stained with their blood . If patient sufferingennobles, the Jew is without peer, and has earned thechosen vessel of national heritage.

`Back through all ages along the path of civilizationthe Jew has shed a continuous light. When barbaricdarkness settled over the world, the Jew retained his for-mer civilization . The Jews were a strong factor in thegolden age of Egypt, Greece, Rome, and when ignoranceand superstition came and swept all Europe back cen-turies, the Jew resisted and continues to resist .

"When kings could not write their names, and themonks of the West were spelling out their litanies, theJews were lecturing on scientific, political and ethicalsubjects. The Jewish doctors were studying natural lawsand laying the foundation of our present system of medi-cine. Their universities were unrivalled and the revivalof learning is due to the influence of the Jew more thanto any other cause .

"The God, Jehovah, has continued to flame like a sunin the forehead of modern civilization. Among the na-tions of the earth, Jehovah yet rules, who ages ago fixedthe limit of Israel's bondage in Egypt .

"When the fulness of time was come, the iron gatesswung under the touch of the Death Angel's hand, andIsrael went forth to freedom. When his hour struck,

134


the captive in Babylon turned his face toward Jerusalem .It will be so again . Soon, as, in the glow of the evolu-tion of man, his heart gradually refines and softens, andlife becomes broader, fuller and richer, there will be acoming together of those yet unreconciled . Èach ad-yancing from his shadows into a space made beautifulwith the radiance of Charity.' When the world's safefor Democracy, will the curtain fall on the tragedy ofthe Wandering Jew, and justice and right shall have pre-vailed ." (Signed) "THOMAS D. SCHALL ."

By Representative Halvor Steenerson,Of Minnesota.

"I entirely approve the British declaration of Novem-ber 2, 1917, which reads as follows :

"'His Majesty's Government views with favor theestablishment in Palestine of a National Home for theJewish people and will use its best endeavors to facilitatethe achievement of this object, it being clearly under-stood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice thecivil and religious rights of non-Jewish communities inPalestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed byJews in any other country,' I submit that the qualifyingwords I have underscored so limit its meaning that itaffords no support to the contention that it favors theestablishment of an independent Jewish nation in Pales-tine. Within these limitations I sympathize with andfavor the efforts of Jewish people to establish a Home-land or centre in that country. Under the free democraticinstitutions, which are to be established there, they can,if sufficiently numerous and united politically, controlthe affairs and destinies of the country . In other words,they will enjoy the same privileges in Palestine as Amer-ican citizens do in the United States, and no one, I take it,asks or expects more than that ."

(Signed) "HALVOR STEENERSON ."

135

Believes inRule by theMajority.


FavorsHome inPalestine .

PledgesSupport.

JewishHistoryOne ofEnterpriseand Ac-complish-ment.

By Representative Thomas Upton Sisson,Of Mississippi .

"I state without hesitation that my sympathy hasialways been with the Jew in the lands in which he hasbeen denied equal citizenship and equal rights with allother citizens.

"I favor the establishment in Palestine of a home forall Jews of all the lands of the world where the Jewsare oppressed where they can work out their own destiny,practise their own religion and entertain their own views.I believe with Thomas Jefferson that the governmentshould have nothing to do with men's religion. I lookwith horror upon the persecution of the Jew throughoutthe world on account of his religion and this has beenthe chief reason for the Jewish persecution in all lands .

"I also would cheerfully support an appropriateConstitutional resolution in Congress, favoring the estab-lishment in Palestine of a Jewish National Centre, pro-vided all the interests of all the parties concerned andinterested in lands and property in Palestine wereobserved .

"There can be no objection to the effort of the Jewishpeople throughout the world to establish a national homein Palestine. If they desire to assume a position as anation and are able to acquire proper control of a suffi-cient amount of territory, I think that they should begiven this opportunity, provided in so doing, they do notinterfere with or trespass upon the rights of others .

"The history of the Jewish race is a history, as a rule,of noble enterprises and great accomplishments . Inevery intellectual field the Jew has rivalled all races andpeople . In music, in science, in law and oratory theyhave been the equal of any people on earth and in reli-gion they have furnished the foundation for all thereligions of Christendom.

"I want to assure you, and, through you, all the Jewsthroughout the world that they have my entire sym-pathy in the oppression which they have received in somany lands."

(Signed) "T. U. SlssoN."

136

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Charles F . Booher,Of Missouri.

"I have read with a great deal of pleasure the Dec-larations of England, France, and Italy, on the Zionistquestion . These declarations seems to voice the sentimentthat should, to my mind, be shared by every libertyloving citizen of this country. If the proposition ispractical, and according to recent events it would seemto be, to establish a Jewish country with the capital cityat Jerusalem, I certainly would favor such a propositionand any action that the United States might take in bring-ing this to a happy conclusion .

"To give the Jews of the world a homeland, a flag,and a government of their own is a beautiful thought,and I will in my humble way help all I can to its realiza-tion."

(Signed) "CHAS. F. BooHER."

137

All Liberty-LoversshouldIndorse.

Will HelpRe-estab-lishment .


LoftyIdeals ofZionists.

No PoliticalAmbitions.

RestorationWouldPerpetuateHigherIdeals.

By Representative William P. Borland,Of Missouri .

"The aspirations of the Jewish people for a home inthe ancient land of Judah-the land which God gave totheir father Abraham-is perfectly understandable . Itenlists my deepest sympathy by the fine quality of theintent which underlies it . No sordid sense, no mercenarymotive, dictates this desire, for the Jews have done wellin a material way in every - land in which their fortuneshave been cast. They have no hope of riches in a returnto the worn land of Palestine . The Return means, intruth, to many of them, a sacrifice of place and powerand possessions .

"Neither can they gratify a purely political ambition .Jews now sit at the council table of the greatest nationson the globe . They have a hand in ruling the world .Their political power cannot be increased by theirorganization into a separate state. A Jewish state couldnever become so powerful as to dominate world politics,for if it should attain that eminence, it would inevitablyband all nations into a league against it to accomplishits limitations .

"The hope of the Jews in the erection of a Jewishstate upon the sacred soil is entirely religious andethical. Such a venture would mean a guarantee of theperpetuation of the ideals for which they have sufferedand struggled through the centuries. A Jewish com-monwealth would be a haven and a shelter for Jewswho might be oppressed in any land. It would be astrong factor for better social conditions, for religiousand racial toleration and for world peace, To it, Jewswould bring back the intellectual spoils of the world .Its literature, its art, its industry, its statescraft, wouldbe the richest and fullest of all time. Such a land oughtto be a veritable garden-the intellectual and artisticgymnasium of a newer and better world ."

(Signed) "WM. P. BORLAND."

138


By Representative Champ Clark,Of Missouri .

"For many years I have been very much interestedin the Jews . I have no better friends than they are. Iam in favor of the Zionist movement . It has seemed tome for a long time that the civilized nations of the earthought to take the Turks by the neck and throw them overinto Asia where they belong . One of the strangest factsin all history to me is that the very rich Jews haven'tcaught the Sultan on the hip long ago, and made himrelease Palestine to them .

"I am very much in favor of Palestine being erectedinto an independent state . I do not know enough aboutthe physical formation of Palestine and the climatic con-ditions to know whether it can be made to support alarge population or not ; but however that may be, theexperiment is certainly well worth trying . I think weought to help along in the matter."

(Signed) "CHAMP CLARK."

139

MovementWill FreePalestinefrom Turk.

ExperimentWell WorthWhile.


BritishDeclarationSafeguardsJews in andout ofPalestine.

Founders ofOur NationLived bythe Lightof JewishLaw.

President'sSelf-Deter-minationPolicyShouldApply toJews.

JewishNationalLaws Cor-ner-Stoneof OurCivilization .

By Representative Leonidas C. Dyer,Of Missouri .Speaker of the House of Representatives.

"I approve of the official declarations of England,France, and Italy, as to the establishment of a home forthe Jewish people in Palestine . I favor it not only be-cause it contemplates returning to the wandering peopleof Israel their ancient home, but for the reason that itdeclares for equality in civil and political rights for theJewish people in whatever lands they may choose todwell. This being a War for universal liberty and justiceamong all the peoples of the world, I recall the importanthistorical struggles of the Jewish people for these verythings, and all they have done through the centuriesthey have been scattered. No reader of the Old Testa-ment can forget that their form of government was onewhich most nearly resembled our own . That brings tomind the fact that our very Government, formulated asit was by the Pilgrim fathers, comes almost directlyout of the Bible, which the Jewish people have given tothe world. The Pilgrim fathers, who are the makers ofthis nation, lived by the light of the Jewish Bible .

"The United States Government, speaking through itsExecutive, has said time and again that it is in favor ofself-determination of small nationalities . I take it thatthis includes the Jewish nation . I am most certainly infavor of the United States Government making an officialdeclaration endorsing what our Allies, Great Britain,France, and Italy, have already declared publicly, urgingthe establishment of a homeland for the Jewish people inPalestine.

"My special reason for desiring to see the Jewishpeople restored to nationhood in their own homelandof Palestine, is that the world owes Jewish people a debtof gratitude. They have laid the corner stone of ourcivilization in the Ten Commandments, in the ethics ofthe Hebrew prophets, in the wise legislation of Moses,the greatest of law givers, and in planting the ideals bywhich the world has tried to live . During these stirringtimes I cannot help thinking of Isaiah and the lofty ideals

140

The American War Congress and Zionismof peace on earth that he preached . Then too, when weturn to the fields of art, of science and of literature, wefind Jews making some of the most important contribu-tions .

"Our own beloved country owes much to the Jewishpeople from its earliest history to this day . With themen who accompanied Columbus to these shores, therewere Jews. In all the early struggles of the coloniesJews did their part. In the Revolutionary War therewere Jewish fighters . Jewish financiers helped financethe War without asking for the return of the moneyswhich they loaned to the Government . In the Civil WarJews did yeoman service in the ranks as well as in im-portant offices. And if we turn to our own time, we findthe Jewish people giving their share, and more, of themen who fight under the Stars and Stripes . As I scanthe casualty lists from day to day, I find the names ofJewish boys who have given their lives, or who havebeen broken in body, that the United States may succeedin this War. Financially, whether the Government so-licits loans, whether the Red Cross asks for contributions,or whether it be the Y. M. C. A., the Knights of Columbus,etc., who ask for money to do War work, the Jewishpeople are among the first to respond and do alwaysmore than their share. For these and many more reasonsI hope soon to see the day when the Jewish people willagain till the soil of their ancestral home so that theymay again proclaim to the world the ideals which are sosorely needed by harassed mankind ."

(Signed) "L. C. DYER."

By Representative Walter L. Henley,Of Missouri .

"I am heartily in favor of the British declaration forthe re-establishment of the Jewish homeland in Pales-tine, and hope that appropriate action will be taken bythe democratic governments to effect the practical con-summation of the Zionist movement ."

(Signed) "W. L. HENSLEY."

141

America'sDebt toJews.

EmbodyJewishIdeals ina State.


ExpectsApproval.

ExpectsAbolition ofRestric-tions.

TurkishOppressionEnded.

By Representative Milton A . Romjue,Of Missouri .

"As I see the matter now, the return of your people toPalestine would meet with quite a hearty approval, I amquite sure."

(Signed) "MILTON A. ROMJUE."

By Representative Jeanette Rankin,Of Montana .

"That the Jews should have a land in which they canlive fully and freely, without the repressions they havesuffered at the hands of almost every nation in the oldworld with whom they have sought a home is a matter notof philanthropy but of justice . And it is to be expectedthat after the war we shall witness the abolition of theseunfair restrictions and the establishment of the right ofJews to practice their religion freely, to engage in busi-ness and to receive an education, to be citizens and voters,and to enjoy all the fundamental rights of human beingsliving in a highly organized society .

"These rights can and must be guaranteed to theJews in Palestine. Toleration of national injustice is nolonger good form. The heavy tribute which the Turkshave always exacted from the Jews, in return for whichthe Jews were allowed to establish very limited educa-tional and industrial enterprises that were in constantjeopardy of destruction and oppression is a thing of thepast. The great nations of the world that are fightingfor democracy and justice have recognized this, and as-sistance in securing justice to the Jews has been pledged .

"The great labor organizations in America, inFrance, in Great Britain, have all urged the establish-ment of Palestine as a free and democratic nation inwhich the Jews may develop their own cultural andeconomic institutions . And Mr. Arthur Henderson,Labor Member of the House of Commons of Great Britain,was not speaking for himself alone when he said lastDecember : "The British Labour movement has includedamong its war aims a demand that the Jews of all coun-tries, great and small, shall enjoy the elementary rightsof tolerance, freedom of residence and travel, and equal

142

The American War Congress and Zionismcitizenship that ought to be extended to all inhabitantsof every nation ; and it has so declared its belief that itwould be practicable by agreement among all the nationsto set Palestine free from the harsh and oppressive gov-ernment of the Turk, in order that the country may forma Free State, under international guarantee, where theJewish people may work out their own salvation freefrom interference by those of alien race and religion.

"If these rights can be guaranteed to the Jews inPalestine, then those Jews who desire to go back to theland of their fathers to live a free, unrestricted Jewishlife, to speak Hebrew, to develop their own educationaland economic systems, their own literature, their ownindustrial and cultural institutions, should be allowed todo so . And those Jews in every country in the world,who do not care to go back to Palestine, should never-theless enjoy the consciousness that in Palestine theyhave a centre of Jewish culture upon which they mayrely for the development of the Jewish race .

`By its geographical position, Palestine stands as agateway between the eastern and western worlds . It is,therefore, peculiarly susceptible to commercial exploita-tion by the more powerful nations.

"But Palestine must not be a project for financialexploitation . Like the other small nations for whoserights we are fighting, Palestine must stand free and in-dependent, respected by the nations of the world for theintelligence and earnestness of its endeavor and for thecontributions it will make to the development of worldcivilization .

"The time is at hand to congratulate the Jews uponthe imminent realization of their dream of centuries, andto help them to re-establish themselves in their old home,to the end that economic and cultural benefits may re-dound to themselves and to the world ."

(Signed) "JEANETTE RANKIN ."

10

143

LaborSupportsDeclaration.

Favors Es-tablishmentof Jews inPalestine.

RealizationImminent.


Favors aNationalHome .

PalestineProtectorateSolvesJewishProblem.

World toSupportPalestineGovernment .

By Representative Moses P. Kinkaid,Of Nebraska.

"I will say the proposal to establish a NationalHome in Palestine for the Jewish people meets with myhearty approval."

(Signed) "M. P. KINKAID."

By Representative Charles C . Lobeck,Of Nebraska.

"I certainly sympathize with the object to establish aJewish Homeland in Palestine . I am certain that if theopportunity is given to the people of the Jewish faith tooccupy Palestine under some kind of a Protectorate ofthe United States, Great Britain, France, and Italy, itwould be solving satisfactorily the problem that has oc-cupied the minds of all religious faiths .

"I am sure nothing would please me more than tolearn and know that Palestine, the home of ancient,sacred history-so dear to all peoples of every faith-would be restored in some degree to its ancient positionamong the official nations of the world . I feel sure that aGovernment in Palestine, founded on the principles ofrighteousness, will have the support of the peoples of theworld and that Palestine will come into its own and theprophesies of its greatness by prophets of old will befully fulfilled ."

(Signed) "C. C. LoBECK."

144

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Charles H . Sloan,Of Nebraska .

"With all the debit of blood and treasure chargeableto this great war, there are many counterveiling creditswhich we hope will show a large balance in favor ofrighteousness and human progress . Among the achieve-ments now in prospect is the realization of the JewishNational aspiration for the recovery of their ancientdomain for habitation and control .

"There is that in their long treasured purpose, un-daunted by difficulties and unweakened by persecution,which challenges our admiration, commands our inter-est and commends our support .

"The race which in that elder day gave us the juris-prudence of Moses, the poetry of David, the eloquenceof Isaiah, the philosophy of Solomon and the valor ofmilitant leaders from Joshua to the Maccabees, and whosemembers in this later day credit our professions, leadin finance, adorn our literature and constitute much ofthe world's best citizenship, may well, under suitablerecognition and encouragement of the Allied powers, re-populate the land of their fathers, and with full scopefor their governmental genius, establish and maintain agovernment which will be a creditable world factor .

"I favor American recognition and encouragement ofZIONISM and shall support all well considered action forits accomplishment."

(Signed) "CHARLES H. SLOAN."

145

RestorationOne ofCompensa-tions forWar.

FavorsRecognitionof Zionism.


Free Birth-place ofChristianityfrom Turkand RestoreHomelandto Jews .

By Representative Dan V. Stephens,Of Nebraska.

"The whole civilized Christian world must be gratifiedwith the progress which has been made by the Alliedforces toward freeing the Holy Land from the rule of theTurk. It is the homeland of the Jews, and the seat of thebirth of Christianity. Nothing has happened in this greatwar more sentimentally pleasing than the prospect createdby the splendid victories of the British Army over theTurks, of restoring to the Jewish people their homelandand sacred shrines .

"I am heartily in accord with the policy set forth bythe Allied governments for the future autonomous gov-ernment of the Holy Land by the people and for thepeople who live there."

(Signed) "DAN V. STEPHENS."

Il4E

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Sherman E. Burroughs,Of New Hampshire.

"I have entirely approved of the recent declarationsmade by England, France and Italy on the Zionistquestion.

"I am also much in favor of similar action on thepart of the United States Government . I hope such ac-tion may be taken in the near future .

"I would certainly favor the adoption of a properresolution by Congress in favor of the establishment inPalestine of a national Jewish center .

"My principal reason for this position is that suchaction recognizes the Jews as a distinct nationality, andalso recognizes the Jewish claim to Palestine . Both ofthese claims to my mind, are just, and their recognitionat this time would be, in my opinion, especially appro-priate when this nation and its Allies are engaged in agreat war of liberation in which oppressed nationalitiesare to find deliverance .

"I deeply sympathize with the aspirations of theJewish people, maintained for so many centuries, to estab-lish again a home in Palestine . It may well be that thegreat genius of this race will again be able to give to theworld a brilliant and distinctive civilization . The re-markable combination of qualities that go to make upthe Jewish mind, enabled it for many centuries in Pal-estine to produce an almost unbroken series of states-men, soldiers, judges, poets, prophets and seers, thinkersand leaders, who have, for all time, left their impressupon the world. The Jewish mind is very tenacious andpersists after all the powerful empires that overran thatland have been overthrown and almost forgotten .

"You may be sure that I shall do everything that iswithin my power to do, to promote the success of themovement you represent, and I trust that I may have anearly opportunity to vote for a resolution in Congress inline with the British Declaration ."

(Signed) "SaERmAN E. BURROUGHS."

147

In Favorof Dec-laration .

SimilarAction ByGovernment.

ResolutionBy Con-gress.

Just Claimsof Jews toNationalityand toPalestine.

For JewishRe-estab-lishment .

Will VoteFor Resolu-tion.


Loyalty toJudaismDemandsIndorsementof Zionism.

PittsburghResolutionand BasleProgramFaithful toPrinciplesof Judaism.

ZionistDreamRealized .

By Representative Isaac Bachrach,Of New Jersey.

"In the words of the great leader, Max Nordau, `theperiod of rhetoric is over, the hour of deeds is approach-ing.' Every Jew be he statesman or tradesman, profes-sional or layman, whatever his calling in life may be,who regards the declaration of Great Britain on Novem-ber 2, 1918, namely :

"'As viewing with favor the establishment in Pales-tine of a national home for the Jewish people, etc.,'with a feeling short of reverence, and who does notgive it his full-hearted support is not a loyal Jew . He isto Judaism, its principles and ideals, what that type ofAmerican citizenship is to America, its hopes and aspira-tions, who with one hand waves the stars and stripes andwith the other is grabbing all the excess profits he canin his dealings with Uncle Sam .

"What figure or more beautiful illustration of faith-ful adherence to principle can be found than in the reso-lution adopted at the last Zionist Convention held inPittsburgh which resolved :

"Therefore we desire to af firm anew the principleswhich have guided the Zionist Movement since its incep-tion, and which were the foundations laid down by lawgivers and prophets for the ancient Jewish state and werethe inspiration of the living Jewish law embodied in thetraditions of two thousand years of exile .

"Thus re-pledging itself to the object of Zionism asdefined at the first Zionist Congress held at Basle, in1896, to wit :

"'The establishment of a publicly recognized, le-gally secured homeland for the Jewish people in Pales-tine.'

"Yes.-No longer is the `publicly recognized andlegally secured home for the Jewish people in Palestine'a mere dream or fantasy . The declaration of GreatBritain, as we all know, has been received with equalfavor by Italy, France, and all Allied democratic Na-tions. A Jewish National home, no longer a dream, isa reality ; no longer a fantasy, is an international fact.

148

Founders and adherents to the Congress at Basle, wellmay you be proud of your accomplishments .

"Righteousness, justice and democracy, in its finestand broadest exemplifications, the foundation of Jewishtraditions and national life, finds anew, as ever before,a champion in glorious, unselfish and idealistic America .That equal opportunity ; that government shall derive itspower by the consent of those governed ; that the rule ofright shall forever supplant the rule of might ; are theobjects of America's intervention in this great conflict .As a member of Congress I shall of course lend everyeffort for the accomplishment of those principles. Everyother cause must abide the one great yearning whichevery American possesses-Victory . To the forces ofZionism I shall consider it a privilege to render what-ever service I can."

(Signed) "ISAAC BACHRACH."

By Representative William J . Browning,Of New Jersey.

"It is my pleasure to state to you that I am whole-heartedly in favor of the development of the plan toestablish a Jewish Homeland in Palestine . It will beone of the desired fruitions of the world war ."

(Signed) "WM. J. BROWNING ."

10

Will Sup-port InCongress.

One ofDesiredFruitionof War.


Declara-tionsIndorsed .

Time ForNationalEstablish-asout .

FavorsAction ByOur Gov-ernment .

AdvisesWidePublicity.

By Representative Edward W. Gray,Of New Jersey .

"It seems to me that every broad-minded Americanwill find his views on Zionist aspirations well expressedin the words of the Honorable Arthur J. Balfour . Asthe views expressed by the representatives of the Frenchand Italian governments coincide with those of Mr. Bal-four, officially expressed for the British Government, itwould seem proper to assume that these are also theviews of the Government of the United States . I amfree to say that they have my personal endorsement .

"In the readjustment of the world's affairs that isnow going on, the outline of which shall more clearlybe seen when the great war is ended, would not a na-tional establishment of the Jewish race be an ideal con-comitant of this readjustment? The Jewish people havemaintained their racial integrity through many centuriesand under many different flags . It would logically ap-pear that the time has come when they should have aflag of their own, and should this desired result beaccomplished, it will in nowise detract from the glory ofthe Jewish accomplishment in the past nor necessarilydiminish the possibilities of Jewish accomplishment inthe future .

"In the three European nations that have officiallyexpressed themselves in favor of the establishment of anational home for the Jews in Palestine, are found thebest expressions of democracy in Europe . Great Britainand Italy are under a monarchical form of government,while France is a republic . In the great republic of theUnited States, therefore, in which modern democracyfound its first foundation and where liberality of viewhas its widest scope, it is fully to be expected that theGovernment will follow in line with the British Declara-tion and move sincerely and earnestly toward its realiza-tion . I shall gladly favor the adoption of an appro-priate resolution in Congress for the establishment inPalestine of a Jewish national center .

"I might say in addition that the efforts of the nationsthat are favorable to the project in view must to a greatextent depend upon the wishes of the Jewish people them-

1S0

The American War Congress and Zionismselves. The more widely and earnestly they makeknown their desire for national unity, the more promptwill be the international response . As I suggested above,the time seems to be as ideal, as the project is itself, forthis, one of the most historic of all the peoples of theearth, to re-establish themselves on a national basis inthe land where they originated ."

(Signed) "E. W. GRAY."

By Representative Elijah C . Hutchinson,Of New Jersey .

"I am a strong adherent of the original Zionist for-mula urging a `legally secured and publicly recognizedhome for the Jews in Palestine .' The so-called Balfourdeclaration furnished this legal assurance and the almostuniversal acceptance of this official announcement sup-plied it with public recognition . The Basle program isthus growing into an actuality before our very eyes .Zionism has passed the stage of being a mere theory ora debatable matter-it is a fact, one to be reckoned with .

"It has afforded me much pleasure to see this Jewishnational movement growing stronger and more en-trenched from day to day until it went òver the top'through the British declaration in its favor. I cannotconceive how any true and loyal American citizen, oranyone who is imbued with the just cause of this war,can rightly refrain from supporting Zionism now that ithad been put forward by our allies as one of their aims .France, Italy, Serbia, Belgium, and all the rest haveofficially recognized and indorsed the British declaration .To oppose it now would be antagonizing the aims ofdemocracy against autocracy.

"I do not believe it would be necessary to obtainany action by Congress favoring the British declaration .The Allies and our Executive Department will keeptheir solemn promise without any further reminders .However, should such action be required, in order tosafeguard the realization of Zionism, I would be gladto support a Zionist resolution in the Congress of theUnited States."

(Signed) "E. C. HUTCanvsoN."151

Zionism noLongerDebatable.

Anti-Zionistsare Cham-pions ofAutocracy .

SupportCongressResolutionif Neces-sary.


FavorsDeclarationby Gov-ernment .

SuccessDepends onJewishImmigration .

Favors Self-Determina-tion forSmallNations.

Foreseesno Reasonfor Opposi-tion.

By Representative Frederick R. Lehlbach,Of New Jersey.

"The declaration by the British Government `viewingwith favor the establishment in Palestine of a nationalhome for the Jewish people' and expressing its willing-ness `to facilitate the achievement of this object' is inaccord with the present-day universal sympathy withnational aspirations of weaker peoples . I trust that thegovernment of the United States will join the Frenchand Italian governments in their indorsements of thisDeclaration, and I will be glad to assist in causing suchaction to be taken.

"The practical value of such a movement will, how-ever, depend upon the attitude toward it of the greatmasses of Jews throughout the world . The mere estab-lishment of a Jewish governmental machine in Palestinewill be of little significance unless the Hebrew race, inappreciable numbers, will in fact make this land theirhome."

(Signed) "FREDERICK R. LEHLBAC1 "

By Representative John R. Ramsey,Of New Jersey .

"I should use my very best endeavors to help theJews in every possible way . I am in favor of anythingwhich is helpful to any small nationality, in giving it anopportunity to develop in its own historic ways and man-ners. This necessarily includes the Jews . From the cur-sory examination that I have made of the British, Frenchand Italian official declarations in favor of a Jewish home-land in Palestine, I should be rather inclined to takethe same attitude as was taken by these, our allies . Iwould furthermore be in favor of our Government tak-ing similar action at such time when it would appearadvisable to every one concerned .

"I feel certain that should an appropriate resolutionbe introduced into Congress regarding the matter of aJewish homeland in Palestine, I should give it the bestconsideration and attention on my part with a view ofdoing justice to the Jewish people all over the world .As I see it now, I can imagine no reason why I shouldbe inclined to vote against such resolution ."

(Signed) "JOHN R. RAIisEY."152

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative John F. Carew,Of New York .

"I would be glad to see the objects of the Zionistmovement accomplished in the way proposed by theleaders of that ideal, and the Jewish problem solvedalong the lines indicated by the British Declaration ."

(Signed) "JOHN F. CAREw."

15S

IndorsesZionism.


NationalAspirationsof Jews.

OvercomingPossibleObstacles .

Tide ofImmigrationalreadyFlowingtowardsPalestine.

By Representattive Walter M. Chandler,Of New York.

"The Zionist movement has many ardent advocatesand able supporters among Jews and Gentiles through-out the earth . The great world struggle has given apowerful impetus to this movement . Besides, the nationalidea and the religious self-consciousness of the Hebrewrace in all ages have been seeds awaiting ripening forsuch an event . It has been truly said that `since thedestruction of the second temple by Titus, since the dis-persion of the Jews throughout the world, this ancientpeople has not ceased to long fervently for a return tothe lost land of their fathers nor to entertain for it adetermined hope.'

"The obstacles to this new plan of erecting an inde-pendent Jewish State in Palestine are many, but not in-superable. The British Government and her allies pro-pose to guarantee to the Jews the return of the territoryof their ancient Jewish fatherland . The two great essen-tial elements of such an enterprise are in existence-acountry without a people and a people without acountry .

"Palestine is about the size of the State of Ver-mont, and has a present population of about 600,000souls. There are about 14,000,000 Jews in the world .If half this number were to return to the ancient home oftheir race, the country could not well maintain them, butthe present Zionist movement does not contemplate suchan exodus of Jews from their present homes. Accordingto a conservative estimate, the territory of Palestine couldeasily maintain a population of four and one-half mil-lions of people . A successful culmination of this move-ment would probably realize an emigration of that num-ber from other lands, as the innate love of the averageJew for the cradle land of his race, coupled with gloriousand thrilling memories of long ago, and the hard lot ofmisery and grinding toil now endured by many of themin different parts of the world, would be a powerful in-centive to join the new settlements in the East . The tideof emigration is already beginning to flow that way .

154

The American War Congress and Zionism"There is no reason from a physical viewpoint why ConceptionJerusalem and the surrounding country should not be- of Land's

come the seat of a prosperous and successful Jewish InfertilityState. The popular notion that Palestine is a barren Erroneous.

country, not capable of yielding rich harvests, is a mis-taken one. Its appearance is barren only during the dryseason, when the grasses which cover the greater part ofit are dried up, and the herdsmen retire with their flocksof sheep and goats to the loftier mountains . The alluviallowland to the sound of Mount Carmel is as fruitful asever, and it only needs an honest and vigorous administra-tion to restore Palestine to its former fruitful condition .

"An enlightened political management would not only Agricultural

rekindle the olden Jewish love of agriculture, but would me am"revive the ancient 'glories of Phoenician commerce possibilities.through the ports of Acre and Jaffa, which would give anoutlet to all the world .

"All the spiritual and intellectual elements would preserve

certainly be present in the building and perpetuating of JewishCivilization

a new Jewish commonwealth in Palestine . The Bible and and Geniusthe Talmud would again be their religious guides and the,

by Embody-lag Idealscharters of their freedom . A Maccabaean soldiery would in a State.again defend their national frontiers . A Jerusalem par-liament would be heard to echo the splendid eloquence ofnew Disraelis, Gambettas, and Castelars . Some newJosephus would record the growth of the expanding State,and the melodies of Mendelssohn and Meyerbeer wouldcheer and sanctify the domestic circles of happy Jewishhomes. Such a commonwealth, kingdom or republic, isa consummation most devoutly to be wished, if Jewishgenius and civilization are not to be lost, as is now feared,in the maelstrom of war and in the readjustment of theboundaries of States and the realignment of races .

"Why should not the nations of the earth join in such Let Nations

an enterprise, if the Jews desire it? Every kingdom of Aid Zionism.

the earth has tried its hand at exterminating them andhas failed. Why should they not now change the pro-gram for awhile and extend to the patriarch of the tribes,the old man of the centuries, a kindly and helping hand?England will turn Palestine over to the Jewish people .

155


Action byExecutiveandCongress .

The Christian nations of the globe could place their fleetsfor transportation at the disposal of honest, strugglingJews who desire to link their lives and fortunes to theland of their fathers and with the early memories of theirrace .

"I am perfectly in accord with the Declaration madeby England, France and Italy, and believe that our ownGovernment should follow suit . Should an appropriateresolution come up for consideration in Congress, I shallconsider it my duty to support it."

(Signed) "WALTER M. CHANDLER."

*Representative Chandler published this statement,as part of his speech, in the Congressional Record, onMay 13, 1918, headed "The Zionist Movement ."

156

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative W . E. Cleary,Of New York .

"In a question involving the very life of an entirenation, of the very historic existence of a people, it iswise and just to be guided by the wishes of that nation,expressed directly or indirectly. The question, therefore,resolves itself into this : Do the Jewish people favorZionism? Are they in hearty sympathy with this He-braic nationalistic tendency? The answer to this is veryapparent to any one who has had the slightest acquaint-ance with the Jews. In recent years, especially, the Jewsof the world in general, and those of America in par-ticular, have expressed their desires and aspirations forZionism in tones and acts unmistakable. I am informedthat the Jewish press, the great Jewish readers, the variousJewish orders and organizations are practically unani-mous in their heartiest approval and co-operation to theend that justice be done to the Jewish nation along thelines indicated by the British Declaration and by theplatform of the Zionist Organization .

"A nation may, in many respects, be compared and Realizationjudged like an individual . It is the will of the individual certain .

which is the uppermost fact in directing him to his suc-cess, and so it is the strong united will of a nation whichis solely responsible in bringing national success to thatpeople. This great war happened to be the vehicle onwhich the Jewish Land, the Jewish Government, will beushered into the world ; but it may be safely assumedthat under any and all conditions, disregarding the im-portance of this war, the Jews would finally have emergedthe victors in their ambitions and hopes, and Palestinewould eventually have become a Jewish State. This isthe course of historic events, and no fatalistic principleswould have stood in its way.

"To help in the accomplishing of this great purpose, PromisesI shall give my aid unstintingly, and afford assistance, if Help.need be, as a member of the great American Congress,and know that I shall be one of a great majority. It ispleasing to me to be in position to render such assist-ance."

(Signed) "W. E . CLEARY"157

Jews AlmostUnanimousforPalestine.


JewishRestorationSource ofInspirationto Near-East.

By Representative S. Wallace Dempsey,Of New York .

"From the time of the Crusades, the nations of West-ern Europe have dreamed of rescuing Palestine from thehands of men opposed to the Christian religion and ofre-establishing the Jews in their ancient home . Whatwas undertaken in a romantic and desultory way by Rich-ard of England and his associates, seven hundred yearsago, has held the admiration of the world for that longperiod . What was then attempted is, to-day, being ac-complished and its importance is not quite fully realizedowing to the magnitude of the Great War in WesternEurope . The regaining of the Holy Land is, however,one of the memorable historical events of all time . Itshould naturally lead to the re-settlement of the countryby the Jews, from all the countries of the world. Thiswould naturally result in the re-establishment of the Jewsas a Nation and they, with their progressiveness and en-ergy, would serve as an example and inspiration to thepeople of all the nearby lands of the East ."

(Signed) "S . WALLACE DEMPSEY."

158

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Jerome F . Donovan,Of New York .

"In the same sense as one's domicile is, in law, notnecessarily changed by a mere change of residence, butcontinues to be the spot which one most truly regards ashis home, Palestine has at all times, and still continues tobe, the domicile of millions of Jews, who have neverceased to yearn and pray for their return to the sacredsoil of their fathers. These Jews have never, for amoment, renounced their first and fundamental allegianceto that country . Their noblest desire is there to carry ontheir distinctive genius, the great and thrice-blessed cul-ture of the Jewish people . They have indeed constituted,and still continue to constitute the Jewish people, as dis-tinguished from the other peoples of the earth . The Age-long denial to them of their home-land has not only con-stituted a cruel and inhuman tragedy to the Jewish peo-ple, but has also constituted a menace to the harmony ofthe cultures of the world, for no national culture canforever continue to survive banishment, and the worldwill never cease to wonder how the Jewish genius hassurvived it so long.

"The highest duty of an individual is to be true tohimself-to the innermost longings of his soul. Butbefore this becomes his duty, it must become his privilege .A man should have the right to be true to himself . Onlyafter he has acquired this right may we look for the per-formance of this duty.

"I speak of this principle as bearing on the relationof the subject under discussion, to the duty of patriotism .the most pressing duty of the hour . The Jew, upon freelyadopting America, must be true to America . As soon .ashe is endowed with all the rights of American citizenship,he must be true to himself as an American citizen . Heowes America what every other American owes it ; asingle-hearted and all absorbing devotion . His spirt mustbe purely American . He must draw upon and con-tribute to the American genius-a genius which, how-ever lavishly it may draw from the ancient genius of theJewish people, is, nevertheless, no other genius but its

11

159

PalestinealwaysJewishHome.

DiasporaMenace toCulture.

For TrueSelf-Expres-sion a Peo-ple Needa Home .


NationalSelf-Ex-pressionmostPreciousGift.

Realizationof ZionistAspirationsWill BenefitWorld .

AmericaSignatoryin Spirit.

own . The same is true, of course, of the Englishman,the Frenchman, the Italian or the member of any othernationality, who of his own free will and accord adoptsAmerica as his home . There is only this difference asregards outward circumstances . The Frenchman whodoes not adopt America, can still be true to himself, bybeing true to France. Likewise, largely as to the othernationalities . The Jew, who desires to remain a Jew,however, is denied this privilege, and is therefore unableto exercise his highest duty. His home denied to him, heperforce adopts this or that country, and the very elementof compulsion in this adoption negatives the existenceof the equality of rights, with its inevitable corollary, theequality of duties .

"The unescapable logic of the foregoing is that theJew, who has not spontaneously adopted this or anyother country, as his home-to whom Palestine alone isdomicile and home-land, ought to be afforded ampleopportunity to give expression to his highest self by be-coming a citizen of Palestine . That large or smallremnant of Jews, as the case may be, constituting in acomparative sense the Jewish people, should no longerbe denied the very thing that is most worth while inhuman life .

"Would not the world at large be the loser for crimi-nally failing to avail itself of this, the greatest occasionfor reconstruction that it has ever had by restoring freeand fair play to a genius, a culture, a national soul, towhich it owes the spiritual aspect, the highest aspect ofits civilization?

"My views of the British declarations are, therefore,self-evident, and I am sure that the United States is, inspirit signatory thereto, even as are the French andItalian governments . As a member of Congress I shallmost heartily join in the adoption, at the first opportunemoment, of an appropriate resolution in precise con-formity to this epochal declaration ."

(Signed) "JEROME F . DONOVAN."

160

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Benjamin L. Fairchild,Of New York.

"As an American and a friend of Democracy, I ap- Duty a anprove to the fullest extent all the declarations made by to support.various Allied Governments, in favor of the establishmentof a Jewish home-land in Palestine . It was a very appro-priate and wise move on the part of the Allied Govern-ments to make the Zionist ideal one of their chief aims .The sentiments of the American people, frequently andpublicly expressed, are unqualifiedly in favor of the re-establishment of Israel's home . I feel it my duty as anAmerican to support this movement which has now be-come world wide and which is nothing more than thebringing of justice to the Jews, of which they have beendeprived for so many hundreds of years . It is indeeda privilege to lend assistance in this direction and Igladly grasp the opportunity to do so .

"It has always been somewhat surprising how some IdsZionism andpeople misunderstood the Zionist aspirations . I believe Americanismit was Justice Brandeis who put the matter very clearly Are one.in stating that Zionism was not aiming to bring to Pales-tine any Jew who is unwilling to go there, nor doesZionism tend to prohibit anyone, Jew or Gentile, fromsettling in the Holy Land . The ideals of Zionism, intheir broad meaning, are the very ideals of the Fathersof our Country. It is surely very fitting that we, thisgreatest Republic in the new world, should be of material Americaand spiritual assistance in the formation of the Republic to As*ist

of the oldest nation in the old world. We Americans Republic .who realize our patriotic duty and who love our insti-tutions and freedom, are peculiarly fit to understand,and to extend the greatest sympathy and assistance tothe Jews in many lands who are deprived of all theserights and are striving to possess what is the commongift of the great majority of mankind .

"My sympathies in this direction are not merely Unqualifiedlimited to the official Declarations of the Allied Govern- Indorsementments, but they extend to the great Zionist movement in o} tionalgeneral that has spread with accelerated momentum Movement

h

among the Jews all over the world in the last thirtyodd years.

161

The American War Congress and ZionismWouldSupportCongressResolution

WouldSupportCongressResolution .

MovementShould beEncouraged.

Would SeeNationalAspirationsRealized.

"Having these sentiments, it is only logical that Ishall do my very best in support of a resolution thatmay be introduced in Congress incorporating the aimsof Zionism . If this purpose was accomplished by Presi-dent Wilson's declaration in its favor, it may perhapsnot be necessary to introduce that resolution . But I amready at all times to aid the Zionists in every waypossible."

(Signed) "BEN. L. FAIRCHILD."

By Representative Joseph V. Flynn,Of New York.

"I desire to state that I have given the matter somethought and am inclined to heartily agree with thedeclaration of England, France and Italy on the Zionistquestion. I am in favor of the establishment of aNational Home for the Jewish people in their old homein Palestine and will gladly do what I can to bring thisconsummation about. I would be in favor of action bythe United States Government in line with the declara-tion of the above named, powers at whatever time isdeemed most appropriate, and if a resolution by Congressshould be necessary, I would gladly vote for it .

"The efforts of the Jewish people to establish theirnational home and work out their own destinies as arace and people should meet with the encouragement ofevery broad-minded man . It is consistent with theavowed purposes of this nation in the present world warand with the declaration of the President in regard tothe rights of small nationalities . This sentiment shouldbe made to apply to all peoples and races who thinkenough' of their own existence and nationality to demandthat they be given a right to work out their own traditionsand ideals .

"When the time comes to finally adjust this questionin the world's affairs, as come it must, and when allclaims must be considered, I shall expect and hope to seethe Jewish people, who have contributed so much to theliberties of mankind through the ages, recognized as aseparate, distinct nationality, among the nations of theworld, established in their own territory, their futureguaranteed, living their own life and history as an in-tegral part of this world's affairs."

(Signed) "JOSEPH V. FLYNN.162

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative George B. Francis,Of New York.

"I agree with the Declaration of Secretary Balfourregarding the establishment of a Jewish Homeland inPalestine. My view is that if the Jewish people wish tore-establish themselves in Palestine they should have thehearty support of all the liberal-minded people andliberal-minded governments. I do not know what formthis support should take, but I have sufficient confidencein the fair-mindedness of the Allies to believe that whenthey have won this war they will permit the Jewish peopleto appear at whatever conferences are held for the pur-pose of restoring world peace, and permit them throughtheir representatives to express their national ambitions,and gladly do everything to enable them to be effectu-ated."

(Signed) "GEORGE B. FRANCIS."

By Representative Anthony J . Griffin,Of New York .

"I welcome the announcement of the intention ofthe Allied governments to establish in Palestine a Na-tional Home for the Jewish race. I do not know whetherthe purpose is to establish there an autonomous nation,but whatever the intent I feel that the civilized world willacknowledge with joy the proposal to rescue the Holyplaces of the Christian and Jewish religions from thedomination of the unspeakable Turk. A similar declara-tion as to Armenia would be equally welcome .

"I have many friends among the Jews, and I do notfind among them any evidence of either wish or purposeto relinquish their allegiance to the United States ofAmerica in order to affiliate themselves with the NewJewish Commonwealth . The Jews who are in the UnitedStates are a part of this great nation irrevocably weldedinto its structure, but there are many members of therace in countries less tolerant and liberal than ours, whowould grasp at the opportunity to find rest, peace andhappiness in the home of their fathers.

"With this thought in mind I cannot too highly com-mend the Zionist movement."

(Signed) "ANTHONY J. GRIFFIN."163

LiberalGovernmentsShouldSupport.

For JewishRepresenta-tion atPeace Con-ference.

CivilizedWorld Re-joices atRedemptionof HolyPlaces ofJews andChristians.

HomelandFor Op-pressedJews.

HighlyCommendsMovement.


LoftyIdeals ofZionism.

Will HaveFavorableReaction onJews .

state winAugmentWorld'sSpiritualTreasure .

WouldEnlistamongSupportersof Cause.

CongressResolutionWouldFind Sup-portin BothHouses.

By Representative Reuben L . Haskell,Of New York.

"To me the principle of Zionism, as it is expressedeffectually in the British Declaration to the Zionists ofEngland, has a particular attraction because of the loftyprinciples and high ideals which it brings in its wake .The proposition has assumed world significance.

"I am for the British declaration because I considerit will bring the most desirable result in the developmentof the democratic ideal, because it will serve to solveone of the great problems of all history, will bring torealization a dream of ages to a people of ages, and be-cause it will develop generally among Jews those quali-ties and adaptabilities now possessed by the more ad-vanced and progressive Jews even now constituting thegreat majority. In short, I am for the declaration be-cause of these and many other reasons .

"The traditions, history and ideals of Palestine makea very strong appeal . When the Jews were the rulers ofthe land they gave so much to the world, which isindebted to them to this day, that surely this new statewill continue to add to the spiritual treasure of humanityas was the case in ancient times .

"This is, indeed, an enterprise to be applauded andsupported by every one. It will give millions of Jewsan opportunity, once again in their history of multitudi-nous experiences, to demonstrate the wisdom of their lawsand customs. I have sympathized with this Zionistmovement; in fact, with all movements for the ameliora-tion of the present struggles that still exist after a historyof two thousand years. I should, therefore, be glad to becounted among the supporters of the Zionist principleand of the British declaration .

"It is my firm belief that the United States Govern-ment should speak unmistakably in this matter as soonas possible by a resolution to Congress in favor of theestablishment in Palestine of an independent JewishNational Center. I am confident that such a resolutionwould receive the hearty support of the representatives ofthe American people in both houses of Congress ."

(Signed) "REUBEN L. HASKELL."164


By Representative Florello H. LaGuardia,Of New York .

"I do not approve of the official declarations of Eng .land, France and Italy on the Zionist question.

"My reasons for not favoring it, briefly stated, are :"I do not believe that it is to the interest of the Jews

or the world to isolate them or to separate them with aneffort to form a distinct and separate nation . While,of course, they are racially one, still the Jews of America,England, France and Italy are no different than theirfellow countrymen, of their respective countries, and togo back and establish a separate colony I believe wouldretard rather than expedite the opportunities of theJews of the East .

"The only action by the United States Governmentwhich I favor is that which we have maintained in thepast-the firm insistence upholding Jewish rights and lib-erties all over the world . We have been fairly successfulin Turkey in the past and completely so now . The Rus-sian problem is one of the past . I, therefore, do not ap .prove of appropriate resolutions by Congress in favor ofthe establishment in Palestine of a Jewish NationalCentre.

"My views, in general, in regard to the effort of theJewish people to establish a national home in Palestineare :

"(a) That it is a mistake to do so . I heartily ap-prove of establishing Jewish centres for educational, reli-gious and social betterment in every nation, but I feelstrongly that it is a mistake to do so in any one centrefor the whole world .

"(b) The Jewish question is only one of religion.I believe in absolute liberty of worship, therefore theJew is entitled to the fullest protection all over the worldin that respect. I believe that a great deal of good is stillto be worked out in this country among the Jews . Itoften happens in a new country that the youngest genera-tion are inclined to forget all the good in the teachingsof the Jewish religion and acquire all that is bad in thatof the customs of their adopted country, and even some

165

OpposesDeclaration.

WouldRetard Op-portunitiesof Jews.

Would Up-hold JewishRights inDispersion .ConsidersRussianProblemSettled.

GeneralViews onZionism .

For JewishCentersthroughoutDispersion.

JewishQuestionReligiousOnly.

ReformLeadersDeviatefromTeachings .


Mind stillOpen.

of the advanced or reformed Jewish leaders are inclinedto depart or deviate somewhat from close observance tothe ancient teachings .

"I would be delighted to meet you and have thebenefit of your knowledge on this subject, for I amseeking all the information that I can get in the courseof the further study of this matter . My mind is stillopen on the matter ." (Signed) "F. H. L&GUARnrn ."

166

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative George R. Lunn,Of New York.

"The capture of Palestine and the City of Jerusalem Jerusalem

cannot be considered as a tremendous military advantage, Politicalbut from a political standpoint it is one of the most im- Event.portant events of the present war . It brought a sense ofjoy to every Jewish heart that is not comparable to anyordinary motion. I sometimes think that the feelingstirred in my own heart when I read the news of thecapture of Jerusalem, could not have been more thrillinghad I been a member of the Jewish race.

"The Jewish people have always stood in my mind Worldbeas the givers to the world of ideas and ideals without Bankrupt

which life itself would not be worth the living . The withoutteaching of Israel's prophets and the working of her Jewishphilosophers has done more to advance the world than tionsri

bu-

any military victory, however great . Back of all worthymilitary endeavors are fundamental ideas, withoutwhich a military endeavor is eventually unavailing . Takefrom the world's treasure house of thought every con-tribution made by the Jewish race, and the world wouldbe bankrupt. This is not an exaggerated expression, butan expression made after years of appreciation of whathas been done for the world by the Jewish people .

"To my mind, this contribution of high and potent Those whothinking has been based on fundamental philosophy . Refuse e

theIdeals demand a setting in the material . Where the Jew Denymaterial setting is wanting, the ideals continue their effec- Christianity.tive and aggressive work by means of a conviction thatultimately the ideal will be actualized . During the pastcenturies the Jewish people have dreamed of a JewishState, a national home, in the land of their fathers . Theyhave looked forward to the time when the restoration ofthe Holy Land, and the Holy City to the Jewish peoplemight be an accomplished fact . Amidst bitterest perse-cutions they still remain loyal to their ideal . Persecu-tion, injustice, multiplied wrongs, never were able toquell within the Jewish heart the longings for and aspira-tions toward a national home. Much of this persecutionhas been done by those who accepted as their Great

167


ZionistRealizationto Eliminateanti-Semit-ism.LetAmericaSupportDeclaration.

Rapproche-ment ofOccidentand Orient.

No Gain inSuppressingany Race.

America'sDuty toFurtherJewishNationalism.

Teacher, a son of the Jewish race. Wherever Christianshave practised injustice toward the Jew, they have gonecontrary to the spirit and philosophy of their GreatTeacher .

"To my mind, now has come the day when, by therestoration of the Holy Land to the Jewish people andthe establishment of a national home, the old bitternessmay be forever forgotten.

"The British Government favors the establishment inPalestine of a national home for the Jewish people, andhas pledged itself to facilitate the achievement of thisobject. It is most fitting, therefore, that our own country,the exponent of democracy, should give its fullest measureof support to the successful prosecution of this historicundertaking in behalf of justice and liberation .

"The Jewish people in largest numbers have becomesettled in the occident, but they are essentially connectedin thought and history to the orient . Is it not possiblethat the establishment of a national home for the Jewishpeople in Palestine might create a State where theJewish people, free to express their own high and inspir-ing ideals, might be the terms of rapprochement be-tween the people of the occident and the people of theorient.

"To my mind, the present war is a great conflict,bloody and terrible, but essential for the liberation of thepeople. The world can never advance by the suppres-sion of any race. Every race has its great contributionto make to the wisdom of the world . The establishmentof a national home for the Jewish people, would be inperfect accord with the philosophy underlying the presentwar.

"I hope and believe that the United States, speakingthrough her Congress, will pass the resolution I haveintroduced. It is one of those resolutions, though short,nevertheless fundamental and historical . It will reg-ister for the first time, the voice of this great nation inbehalf of justice and liberty to that great people whohave given to the world the highest in religion and thebest in philosophy ."

(Signed) "GEORGE R. LUNN ."168

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative James P . Maher,Of New York.

"I am in favor of a Jewish Homeland in Palestine,and believe that the United States Government shouldtake an active interest in the matter, as I believe that theJewish people are entitled to this consideration ."

(Signed) "JAMES P. MAHER."

By Representative Luther W. Mott,Of New York.

"The United States should join England, France, andItaly in favoring the establishment of a Jewish state ornation in Palestine. I fully sympathize with the historicJewish people in their natural desire to have the home-land of their race freed from Turkish control, and Irejoice with them in the recent triumph of the Britisharmy which bids fair to give the movement a wonderfulimpetus. It is a disgrace that the Christian and Jewishpeople of the world have for so many years allowedtheir holy places to be under the government of-whatthe Armenian massacres prove to be-the most uncivi-lized of the great or semi-great nations of the world .

"Should the Zionist movement succeed, the world willbe the better in that it will have added a self-governed

mmunity, under the protection of the great Christianuntries, and in that the Jewish race will be bettered and

strengthened by having, as a people of the Allied coun-tries have, a homeland of freedom and of opportunity"

(Signed) "LUTHER W. Morr."

169

Approvesof Dec-laration.

UnitedStatesShouldMake Dec-laration.

A HomelandWillStrengthenJewishPosition.


PalestineMust Notbe Restoredto Turkey .

Jews atHomeElsewhere.

Preservethe PastoralLife.

By Representative Edmund Platt,Of New York .

"I approve fully the statement of the Secretary ofState for Foreign Affairs of Great Britain favoring theestablishment of a National Home for the Jewish peoplein Palestine, and see no reason why the United Statesshould not make a similar declaration . General Allenby'stroops have, as I write this, thrilled the world by theirexploits in Palestine, and have already freed most ofthe original territory of the ten tribes of Israel from thedomain of the followers of Islam . Whatever final settle-ments are made at the close of the war this territoryshould never be given back to the Turks, and I do notbelieve the sentiment of the people of any of the greatself-governing nations allied in the struggle for the pres-ervation of democracy will consent that it shall ever begiven back. No more fitting disposition could be madeof this territory, looked upon as the Holy Land by somany millions of people, than to restore it under propersafeguards to the nation which gave it its great place inthe history of the world .

"I do not feel familiar enough with the plans of theZionists to express my opinion as to just how this shouldbe accomplished, but the people of the Hebrew race andreligion have so greatly multiplied since their expatria-tion, and have become so thoroughly a part of maother great nations, in most of which they have long sinceovercome most of the long-standing prejudice againstthem and are valued as enlightened, progressive and use-ful citizens, that it is not to be expected that any greatproportion of them could or would at this time find ahome in Palestine . The country is too small and its re-sources too slender to support them . May I add that Ithink that Jew and Christian alike would regret to seethe ancient country too greatly modernized, and that anyplans for the future should include a preservation to someextent at least of the primitive, pastoral simple life,which has to a considerable degree been preserved therethroughout the centuries ."

(Signed) "EDMUND PLATT."170

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Daniel J . Riordan,Of New York .

"I favor the British declaration for the re-establish-ment of the Jewish Homeland in Palestine, and suggestappropriate action by the democratic governments toeffect the practical consummation of the above declara-tion .

(Signed) "D . J. RIopDAN."

By Representative Frederick W. Rowe,Of New York.

"I am very glad that the English Army has takenJerusalem and a large part of Judea . I do not believethat any great number of the Jewish people of Americawill ever want to return to Jerusalem for a permanentresidence,, but I do believe that Jerusalem and the sur-rounding territory should be either a separate nation orunder the government of one of the civilized nations ofthe world and not be placed again under Mohammedanrule.

(Signed) "FREDERICK W. RowE."

PracticalConsumma-tion ofDeclaration .

An Autono-mous Gov-ernment forPalestine.

By Representative Isaac Siegel,Of New York.

"I approve of the declarations of England, France and ApprovesItaly .

Declaration."With the successful termination of the war in which Confident of

we are engaged I am confident that the dream of the Success .people of the Jewish faith will become a reality ."

(Signed) "ISAAC SIEGEL."

171


JewishCentreDesirable.

SupportsDeclaration .

FavorsResolution .PledgesSupport.

End ofLong Exile.

By Representative Charles Bennett Smith,Of New York.

"It is my belief that the American Government shouldjoin the British, French and Italian Governments withrespect to the establishment of a National Home for theJewish people of Palestine . The reasons for such a homeappear so obvious that they do not require elaboration .The reasons, however, includes the desirability for a Jew-ish centre . Social, sentiment, intellectual and historicaladvantage would inure from the establishment of the pro-posed home . I feel sure every Jewish and Christianstudent of race or religion or human progress will seethe noble purpose of the movement to carry out the ambi-tious but thoroughly practicable enterprise ."

(Signed) "CHARLES BENNETT SMITH."

By Representative Thomas F. Smith,Of New York.

"The Balfour declaration in favor of the establish-ment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish peo-ple, which has been indorsed by the French and Italiangovernments, has my unqualified support .

"I believe in the principles of Zionism, as laid downby the late Theodore Herzl, in order that the Jews, nowdispersed over the face of the earth, may return to theirhomeland, and again set themselves up as a nation .

"I heartily indorse the contents of President Wilson'sletter of August 31st to the Zionist Organization . I con-strue this as `favorable action by the United States Gov-ernment' (with President Wilson as our spokesman),and as indorsement of the Balfour declaration . I wouldbe glad to lend my support to such a resolution .

"As to my general views in regard to the efforts ofthe Jewish people to establish a national home in Pales-tine, I might add that from my personal knowledge ofthe Jews of America, their support of the Zionist move-ment will in no way affect their whole-hearted American-ism, their allegiance or their loyalty.

"In conclusion, let me congratulate you upon thesuccess which your movement has met, with the hope thatthe peace which is now beginning to be seen in the riftingclouds, will soon mark the end of the homelessness ofthe Jewish people ." (Signed) "THonus F . SMITH."

177

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Homer P. Snyder,Of New York .

"I note the project of establishing a Jewish Homelandin Palestine and beg to say that at the proper time andunder proper conditions and with the assent of theallied governments, it seems to me there could be nopossible exception to this move. The history of the He-brew people is linked with Palestine, and their help inany movement which will tend to visualize and mark thatsentiment would, in my opinion, be most appropriate ."

(Signed) "H. P . SNYDER."

By Representative Christopher D . Sullivan,Of New York.

"I heartily approve of the British declaration for apublicly, legally secured home for the Jews in Palestineand trust that our country will unite with the Allies indemanding, as the victors of the great war, that allnationalities, large or small, be restored to their ownhistoric lands .

"It is my firm belief that the realization of the aimsof Zionism is the most practical solution of the eternalJewish Question, and I shall do all I can to hasten itsrealization, to the end that the Jew will at last cease tojourney as a wanderer and take his place in his ancienthome, which is destined to become a nation amongnations .

"I favor action by Government and by Congress ."(Signed) "CHRISTOPHER D . SULLIVAN."

173

StrengthenBond withPalestine.

Fruits ofVictory.

Solutionof JewishQuestion.

For UnitedStatesAction.

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Oscar William Swift,Of New York .

"The declaration made by the Honorable Arthur J .Balfour, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, on No-vember 2, 1917, in behalf of the British Government,favoring the establishment in Palestine of a NationalHome for the Jewish people, and which declaration re-ceived the official endorsement of the French and Italiangovernments on February 11, 1918, and February 23,1918, respectively, should, in my opinion, receive similarendorsement by all nations espousing the cause of Liberty,Civilization and Humanity, and I should, indeed, bepleased to see our great and glorious Government placeitself on record accordingly, thereby following out itstraditions of the `Spirit of '76.'

Pledges

"Be assured of my hearty co-operation to promoteSupport.

the success of your very laudable object which I sincerelyhope will also receive the approval of the American Con-gress by appropriate resolution."

(Signed) "OSCAR WM. SWIFT."

By Representative William F. Waldow,Of New York .

An Inherent

"I approve the official declaration of England, France,Right.

and Italy on the Zionist question, as I believe that thesmaller nations of the world should have a homeland oftheir own.

A Condition

"I favor the action of the United States Governmentof Peace . in conformity with the British declaration at the time

when negotiations for peace will be held, as the action tobe taken is one for the President, Senate, and StateDepartment . I do not believe that the House can verywell act at the present time .

Merits

"The efforts being made to establish a national homeApprovalval

should receive the hearty approval of all."(Signed) "WM. F. WAL.Dow."

DemocraciesMustIndorseZionism .

174

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Charles B . Ward,Of New York .

"I am heartily in favor of the Zionist movement, pri-marily so on account of the President's declaration ofAugust 31. I think that the bringing about of the re-establishment of the Jewish nation in Palestine shoulddepend to a great extent upon the wishes of the Jewishpeople themselves." (Signed) "CHARLES B . WARD."

By Representative Hannibal L. Godwin,Of North Carolina .

"I am unqualifiedly for the British Declaration andZionist movement and will warmly support a resolutionto that effect when it comes up for consideration ."

(Signed) "H. L . GODWIN."

By Representative John H . Small,Of North Carolina.

"I endorse the declarations of England, France andItaly, and primarily because it will fulfill a long cher-ished aspiration and will afford the Jews of every nation-ality the satisfaction of realizing that their race possessesa national centre from which in good time will radiateideals and movements for the benefit of the Jewish peo-ple. I also favor action by the Government of theUnited States at some appropriate time in the future, andI think a contemporaneous declaration by Congress alongthe same line would be eminently appropriate and desir-able."

(Signed) "JNO. H. SMALL."

Re-estab-lishmentDepends onJews.

Will Sup-port Reso-lution .

NationalCentre.

For Actionby CongreseandExecutive


Will SupportJewishPosition.

No RaceHas Con-tributedMore.

By Representative Charles W. Stedman,Of North Carolina .

"I cordially endorse the Zionist movement if such bethe wish of the Jewish people.

"Amongst our own people the Jew has ever been aconservative force. He has never attempted to disturbexisting conditions. His influence has been healthful andhis life has been distinguished for charity, benevolence,and philanthropy. His record compares well with anyother class anywhere. The history of no race of men,from the early dawn of time, is so full of wonderfulevents ; is so connected with the advance of civilization ;is so gilded with strange romance ; is so blessed withheroic memories ; is more closely allied with the highesttruths of science. No race has contributed more to thecivilization, prosperity and happiness of humanity, orhas survived so much suffering without a surrender ofmanhood.

"Persecution and oppression have ennobled the char-acter of this people, and they have been led therebytoward greater efforts for moral and intellectual growth.Suffering is necessary to purify both individuals andnations. No man or woman ever reached the high de-gree of excellence to which their nature might aspireunless exalted by sacrificial fire and these people morethan any other in the world's history have exemplifiedthis great truth .

"Centuries have witnessed their struggle . In spite ofdispersion and oppression, which robbed them of thesimplest rights of man, the development of their intel-lectual life has been continuous and has preserved forother nations the foundation and basis of morality .They have furnished names renowned as philosophers,musicians, sculptors, and scientific physicians .

"They have preserved a community of faith andideals founded on an intellectual and moral life whichhas ever distinguished them and has made them an ex-ample for the civilized world. If there be heroism inendurance, in patient fulfillment of duty, in earnestendeavor for good, then Jews have lived heroic lives .

176

The American War Congress and Zionism"I shall vote with great pleasure for any resolution

in Congress in accordance with the declarations hereto-fore made by England, France, Italy, and our own coun-try, chiefly for the reason that it would be recognition ofthe Jewish race as a distinct nationality to which they areentitled as fully as any people on the globe ."

(Signed) "CHAS. W. STEDMAN."

Will SupportResolution.RecognizesNationality.


EndorsesDeclaration.

Jew.everywherePreservedRacialIntegrity.

TurkishDominationa Blot.

RestoreHoly Landto Jews.

By Representative Zebulon Weaver,Of North Carolina.

"None of the victories of the Allied arms broughtmore genuine happiness than those in Mesopotamia andthe expulsion of the Turk from Jerusalem and Palestine.I am in accord with the British Declaration proposingthe establishment of a national home for the Jews in theland of their fathers. I do not understand that it iscontemplated that the Jews in America shall abandontheir allegiance to this Republic, but that in a broadsense the Holy Land is again to pass under the controlof the Race that gave to the world the glories of Hebrewtraditions and the blessings of a religion that has con-quered wherever it has been taught.

"Senator Zebulon B . Vance, one of the Governors andSenators from my own commonwealth-the State ofNorth Carolina-prepared and delivered a lecture upon"The Scattered Nation ." He was a great admirer of theJewish race. In this address he compared this race tothe Gulf Stream which has its origin in the warm andlife-giving waters of the Gulf of Mexico and flows north-ward, through the Atlantic, toward the Arctic . Like agreat river flowing through the cold and inhospitablewaters of the Atlantic, never losing itself nor its char-acteristics, it brings warmth and comfort to otherwisedesolate shores . So, he said, has been the Jewish Race .It has flowed through all lands and lived under all Gov-ernments, but has never been dissipated nor lost, through-out its centuries of wandering .

"This race has contributed in a large and liberalmeasure to our literature and law. From it has comegreat statesmen, financiers and soldiers ; and above all,from it the world has received its knowledge and con-ception of the one true and living God. The nations ofthe earth have been and will continue to be ruled fromSinai . That these holy places have been in the handsof the Turks for so many centuries, has been a blot uponthe nations who believe in our one God .

"Now, that they are rescued through the glorioustriumph of the Allied and American arms, they shouldbe returned to the control of the descendants of theirancient masters. I trust that our nation will take properaction to this end ." (Signed) "ZEBULON WEAVER."

178

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative J. M. Baer,Of North Dakota.

"The armies of the Allies have driven from the HolyFight forLand the followers of the false prophet . They have freed Palestine.

Israel from its bondage and set up again the hope thatnever dies either in the heart of the Jew or Christian ;that some day the children of Judah will once morepossess the land of their fathers. It has been a longnight and the day star has been slow in dawning-butday begins to break over the world and over Palestine .Jewish regiments are helping to rescue the land of theirfathers and they with the Gentiles of the West, Britishand French, are sweeping the filthiness of the Moslemand the Turk out of God's Holy Places on earth . Thisis the news of the day. It is an earnest of what weshall bring to other lands . To Belgium, to Serbia, toRoumania, to Bohemia, to all the oppressed . It has beena horrible war-a seemingly causeless and useless war .But no event is useless or causeless in God's providence .His eternal decrees unroll, in the fullness of time, andthe great plan as it unfolds itself out of the womb oftime becomes clear to human understanding .

"As a Nation we shuddered to take the awful plunge Approves et

into this war. As a people we cried out against the loss St~dof blood and treasure we knew it meant for us . Wecried out that God should suffer such an evil to befall us .We needed but a little faith to take hold of Him and totrust Him, that the eternal purpose toward mankind isbut good. Not only the redemption of Israel is broughtnear-the redemption of the entire world approaches .The establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine meetswith my hearty approval . The race that has contributedto the world so much in art, commerce, and constructivegenius, is about to realize its age-long dream . Themovement appeals to the imagination of the Gentiles ofall lands as well as to the descendants of Israel . Thesuccess of this splendid experiment will mean a secureand lasting peace for all mankind ."

(Signed) "J . M. BAER."

179


IndorsesEstablish-ment ofHomeland .

LiberalsMustRejoice .

Approve&Declaration.

Action byGovernmentand Con-gress.

Entitled toPalestine.

By Representative George M . Young,Of North Dakota.

"I wish to express my entire sympathy with the estab-lishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine in accordancewith the official declarations of England, France andItaly."

(Signed) "GEORGE M. YOUNG."

By Representative Clement Brumbaugh,Of Ohio.

"Every student of the Scriptures, every student ofHistory, as well as every lover of Liberty and Justice,will rejoice to see a successful conclusion of your effortto establish a Jewish homeland in Palestine . What aworld-wide, epoch-making effort that would be .

"I wish you most abundant success ."(Signed) "CLEMENT BRUMBAUGH ."

By Representative Horatio C . Claypool,Of Ohio.

"I approve the official Declarations of England,France, and Italy, on the Zionist question .

"I favor action by the United States Government inline with the British Declaration . I also favor the adop-tion of an appropriate resolution by Congress in favorof the establishment in Palestine of a Jewish NationalCentre.

"If the Jews want a home in Palestine they are en-titled to it, it having been their home thousands of yearsago.22 (Signed) "H. C. CLAYPOOL."

180

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Robert Crosser,Of Ohio .

"I approve of the declaration of the British Govern-ment on the subject in question . I consider it not onlyjust but highly desirable that the Jewish people shouldhave the opportunity of living under a governmentwhich would reflect the views of their race, and so en-able them to express more fully the Jewish character .In a general way, it seems to me that this is the rightof every race, when it is possible and consistent withthe rights of other peoples. The ideals of any race canbest be carried out under a government administered inaccordance with the views of that race. I favor actionby the United States Government in accordance not onlywith the British declaration, but with the views which Ihave herein expressed .

"I favor the adoption of an appropriate resolutionby Congress in favor of the establishment in Palestine ofa Jewish National Center, although I would prefer some-thing more definite and substantial in the way of govern-mental control than the term `Jewish Center' wouldseem to contemplate .

"As I have already said, I regard it as highly desir-able that each race should have an opportunity to ex-press and to carry out its ideals under governmentadministered, so far as is practicable, by the representa-tives of the race itself ."

(Signed) "ROBERT CROSSER."

By Representative Henry I. Emerson,Of Ohio.

"I assure you that I am in favor of the British Dec-laration and shall assist all I can to establish the Jewishnation in Palestine .

"I feel Congress should assist and this countryshould act in conjunction with the other countries ofEurope in re-establishing all the smaller nations of theworld.

"However, we welcome to this country all the Jewishpeople who desire to come here and live, and make thiscountry their home. The Jew makes a good citizen anda loyal and patriotic American ."

(Signed) "H. I. EMERSON."181

ProvidesOpportunityfor Self-Expression .

Would LetCongressIndorseMovement .

Self-Government.

Will AssistRe-establish-ment .

WishesGovernmentand CongressAction.

Jews alsoWelcomeHere.

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Simeon D . Fess,Of Ohio .

Biblical

"The desire and movement for the re-establishmentProphecyReal zed by of the Jewish nation in their historic land is not only aDemocracies. sentiment age-long that ought to be realized, but an

ancient prophecy to be fulfilled through the aid of thewestern world . It is a welcome and glad situation,brought about by this terrible war, that this biblicalprophecy should come to realization through the aid ofthe democracies of the world, in which this country playsits part so prominently .

England

"The Jews will not be the only people whose na-DeservesCongratu .

tional salvation will become a reality after this war .rations . They will, however, be perhaps the oldest people in that

group, whose hopes and aspirations for their return tothe Holy Land has won the admiration of the entirecivilized world. The Government of Great Britainsurely deserves high recognition and hearty congratula-tions at being the first in our allied group to initiatethe movement to satisfy the aspirations of Zionism, asshown in its official Declaration by its Secretary of Statefor Foreign Affairs, the Honorable Arthur J . Balfour.

Will vote

"I do not hesitate to say that I shall be very glad tofor Resolu- vote for a resolution, expressing the principles laid downtion . in the British Declaration specifically, and in the Zionist

ideals generally, whenever such resolution would be pro-posed in Congress .

Pledges

"I am very glad of the opportunity to make theseHelp .

sentiments known, and will, as in the past, do my utmostto help the Jewish people, or nation, in every possibleway" (Signed) "SIMEON D. FEss."

182

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Warren Gard,Of Ohio .

"The continuance of a people in maintaining racialstrength of character and the desire of such people fora National Home are seemingly to me the high substanceof the official Declarations of England, France and Italy .

"The re-occupation of the ancient territory will bealike sentimental and practical, affording instance ofpermanent control by influences potential for good andthe possible territorial development of a nation . Thisis eminently a matter for the Jewish people themselvesand to be worked out by them.

"That there be no abridgment of the rights of po-litical status of the Jews in any country or indeed of anypeople in any country, and that all peoples recognizingand obeying the law be afforded its full protection, isthe goal of national and international achievementtoday."

(Signed) "WARREN GARD."

By Representative William Gordon,Of Ohio .

"I personally favor the Zionist movement, and as-sure you that it has my hearty sympathy, because I be-lieve it would be of material, spiritual, and cultural aidnot only to the Jews who may return or desire to returnto the land of their ancestors but would be of real senti-mental value to the Jews all over the world .

"I feel that this ambition on the part of the Jews isa very laudable and praiseworthy one and that it willeventually win the support and co-operation of thecivilized world, thereby atoning in part for the injusticedone to the Jewish people in many lands for thousandsof years."

(Signed) "WILLIAM GORDON."

183

Preservationof Race.

ReoccupationSentimentalandPractical.

No Abridg-ment ofRights.

FavorsMovement-BenefitsAll Jews .

Will WinWorldSupport .


HeartilylndorsesProject .

ApprovesDeclara-tions .

FavorsResolutionand Govern-ment Action.

By Representative David A. Hollingsworth,Of Ohio.

"I now take time simply to say that I heartily en-dorse the suggestions for the establishment of a JewishHomeland in Palestine ."

(Signed) "D. A . HOLLINGSWORTH ."

By Representative Roscoe C. McCulloch,Of Ohio .

"I take pleasure in saying that I entirely approveand am in sympathy with the Declarations of our Alliesin favor of a Jewish homeland in Palestine ."

(Signed) "RoscoE C . McCULLOCH."

By Representative Isaac R . Sherwood,Of Ohio.

"I will say my sympathies are entirely in accord withthe official declarations by England, France and Italy onthe Zionist question . I am now, and always have been,in favor of the largest liberties to all peoples and theabsolute protection of these rights, which should be re-garded as sacred .

"I favor action by the United States Government inalliance with the above declaration, and I strongly favorthe adoption of an appropriate resolution in Congress,and will vote for such resolution, if given the oppor-tunity. My views on all these questions are well knownto my Jewish friends in Toledo, where I reside .

"I likewise favor a National Home in Palestine forthe Jewish people, and am in favor, absolutely, of giv-ing the right of determining their own future to allpeoples and all nationalities, as well as a right to wor-ship God in accordance to the dictates of their ownconscience ."

(Signed) "ISAAC R . SHERWOOD."

184

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative John S. Snook,Of Ohio .

"I wish to take the opportunity to express my entiresympathy with your movement to establish a NationalHome for the Jewish people in Palestine . Tradition andsentiment appeal to me as strong reasons why thisshould be done but I also believe it would result in verygreat practical good to your race .

"I will be glad to lend the movement my heartysupport."

(Signed) "JOHNS. SNOOx ."

By Representative Benjamin F. Welty,Of Ohio.

"I am gratified with the movement to establish ahome for the Jews in Palestine."

(Signed) "B. F . WELTY."

By Representative Charles D. Carter,Of Oklahoma.

"The British Declaration favoring the establishmentin Palestine of a National Home for the Jewish peopleis somewhat indefinite, and the word `home' is so gen .eral in its application, that I am at a loss to understandthe full meaning of a National Home for the Jewishpeople in Palestine. If it means that the Jews are atlast to be given an opportunity to establish a Govern-ment of their own in a country of their own, then Iknow of no reason why any man in this country shouldoppose any such worthy proposition .

"In America, as in all other countries where theyhave settled, the Jewish people have given evidence ofthe very highest type of virility and intellectuality. Ihave no doubt that a country governed in accordancewith Jewish ideas would soon aspire to be one of thepowers of the world ."

(Signed) "C. D. CARTER."

185

PledgesSupport.

GratifiedWithMovement.

ForIndependentJewishstate.

Indicationso! Success.



PalestineLogicalHome.

Jewish StateSource ofInspiration.

Accords withWilson'sPrinciples.

By Representative Tom D. McKeown,Of Oklahoma .

"I am absolutely in accord with the Zionist move-ment; not only this, but I am heartily in sympathy withthis movement and with the Declarations of Great Brit-ain, France, and Italy, which will cause this movementto become a fact and a reality.

"I have studied this question for a long while, havefollowed up the development of the idea since the firstday when the Rothschilds started colonization in Pales-tine. I have watched the various plans of the terri-torialists but I have always felt that the historic andlogical place for a Jewish state is their ancient and be-loved home, Palestine.

"It is a happy coincidence that along with the realiza-tion and aspirations of the great democratic idealists ofthe world will also come the realization of the dream ofages, that has absorbed the Jewish people in theirhistory. I am inclined to feel in this matter along theselines because of my natural sympathies for a peoplethat for thousands of years have been wandering all overthe world without any country which they may, as aunit or as a group, call their own ; because my heartalways went out to a people who spoke every tongueexcept their own. I have long felt that the time hascome that this unfair treatment and discriminationagainst the Jews all over the world come to a halt, andthat a new nation, the re-birth of the oldest nation inhistory, be again formed to the delight of its own sonsand daughters as well as to the inspiration of the entireChristian world.

"I certainly do not hesitate to state that the Jewishpeople are easily to be included as one of the group ofsmall nationalities who are to decide their own fate, inaccordance with the principles laid down by our greatPresident, Woodrow Wilson. The small nationalities,the Jews and the others, should have the right to liveand exist in accordance with their national aspirationsand hopes and to share the things put here by the greatworld Creator.

186

The American War Congress and Zionism"I am in favor of a resolution to be introduced into

Congress purporting the re-establishment of the Jewishnation in Palestine, conditioned upon the fact that suchresolution come up at the time when it would cause noembarrassment to us or our Allies and when it wouldnot be thought to be anti-diplomatic, from the standpointof the great democracies of the world ."

(Signed) "Tom D. McKEowN."

By Representative Dick T . Morgan,Of Oklahoma .

"I personally sympathize with the aspiration of theJews, and would be glad to give my encouragement tothe Zionist movement.

"I have read the statements made by the representa-tives of England, France, and Italy, relative thereto, andI see no reason why the said statements would not re-ceive the hearty approval of the people of the UnitedStates .

"I think that you and other leaders of the Jews ofthe United States are engaged in a movement which de-serves the sympathy, encouragement, and support of allbroad-minded men throughout the world ."

(Signed) "DICK T. MORGAN."

187

FavorsCongressResolution.

FavorsZionistMovement .

MeritsApproval ofAmericanPeople .

DeservesWorldSupport .

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Willis C . Hawley,Of Oregon .

Re-establish-

"The declarations of the officials of England, France,meat Act of and Italy, in favor of establishing a National Home forJustice .the Jewish people in the land their race has forever madefamous is one of the fortunate results of the war . Thesegreat and humane nations have seen their neighborsdriven out by a barbarous invader and rendered suddenlyand unexpectedly homeless . Their sympathies so vio-lently appealed to by the misfortunes of war, haveextended to a race which has been without a nationalhome for eighteen hundred years .

Wants

"Through the people of Israel there were given lawsHomeland and teachings which have proven the enduring founda-undedAllied

tions of religion, orderly government, liberty, obedience,Protection. devotion to duty, and love of country. Every nation

that has heeded these laws and teachings has prospered .One of the bravest fights for liberty ever made was thatof the Jews under the Maccabees . I am in favor of giv-ing to them again their homeland, under the protectionof the Allied Nations, and a guarantee of the rights andprivileges of all people who may live there .

Indorsement

"If my memory of history is not at fault, the Unitedin Lina with States was the first modern nation to give to the JewsAmericanPolicy, equal rights and privileges with other peoples . It

would accord with this policy for the United States tojoin her allies in this movement, and whatever actionmay be necessary and proper for us to take, I favor .

God-speed . "Many nations important in their day have disap-peared, the governments they organized disintegratedand the people lost their racial identity. Their workwas done. But the Jew is the exception . Through thecenturies of persecution and adversity the Jews maintained their racial identity and distinguishing institu-tions . Turkish misrule has devastated and saddenedtheir once prosperous and populous land . If the Jewswish to rebuild its fortunes, God speed them ."

(Signed) "WILLIS C. HAwLEY."

188

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Earl H . Beshlin,Of Pennsylvania .

"I approve the Declarations of England, France, andItaly, on the Zionist question, and I can see no reasonwhy our government cannot with propriety adopt a sim-ilar resolution. I believe in the eventual fulfillment ofprophesy, and this to my mind means the restoration ofPalestine to the Jews who by their loyalty to our govern-ment are entitled to the support of all patriotic Amer-icans in their efforts to establish a national home inPalestine."

(Signed) "E. H . BESHLIN."

By Representative Guy E . Campbell,Of Pennsylvania .

"I see no reason why I cannot endorse the move-ment to establish a Jewish Homeland in Palestine . Cer-tainly these oppressed people are entitled to this recog-nition. The history of the Christian world began inPalestine, and I believe all Christians everywhere willfavor this project in the interest of a race which hascontributed so much to the development of ancient andmodern civilization ."

(Signed) "Guy E. CAMPBELL ."

By Representative Henry A. Clark,Of Pennsylvania.

"If the aspirations of the Jewish people are for therecreation of a national home, if they desire to establishan independent republic of their own, it seems to methat the problem is one that must be largely solved bythe genius of the Jewish race.

"In reflecting over this subject many things occurto me, but I will not now attempt to discuss them. Ihave become, however, greatly interested in this matterand propose to give it a more studious consideration ."

(Signed) "HENRY A. CLARK."

189

Entitled toAmericanSupport .

IndorsesZionism .

Favors itJewsDesire It.

BecomeGreatlyInterested.


Jews mayfurther Con-tribute toCivilization.

True Aimof Zionism.

BritishDeclaration .

AffordsOpportunityfor NormalDevelop-ment.

By Representative Peter E . Costello,Of Pennsylvania.

"The Balfour Declaration has for its object the estab-lishment of a National Home for the Jewish people inorder that those may return to Palestine, who, by reasonof persecution in foreign lands, have been unable todevelop along normal lines . A home would be pro-vided, also, for those who prefer to live a specificallyJewish life in order that the Jewish people might makefurther contributions to civilization .

"It is not the aim of Zionism, as I understand it, toinfluence all of the Jewish people to return to the HolyLand, because a majority of those now living underfree institutions are contented and happy, and are power-ful factors in fostering and developing the spirit ofDemocracy and Freedom .

"Again, it is officially set forth by the British Declara-tion which promises that `nothing shall be done whichmay prejudice the rights and political status enjoyedby Jews in other countries .' I believe the establishmentof a Homeland in Palestine for the Jewish people willmaterially aid, also, those who prefer to live in othercountries .

"I am happy that the Allies have declared in favorof a movement which has so much of spiritual and moralvalue. The Hebrew race has in many centuries madethe most valuable contributions in all fields of humanendeavor. If allowed to develop in a normal way in itsown State, and under its own institutions, there is everyreason to believe that it will in the future make furthercontributions and materially add to the cultural valuesof the world . It is difficult to understand how anyonefamiliar with the history of the Jewish people can in-terpose any objection to an effort to right the wrongs ofcenturies-a movement founded upon the dictates ofNatural Justice."

(Signed) "PETER E. COSTELLO."

190

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Thomas S . Crago,Of Pennsylvania .

"I heartily approve of the declarations of England,France and Italy on the Zionist question . I believe thatthe desire of the Jewish people themselves should be fol-lowed in any movement looking to the establishment ofa national home in Palestine. Many of the Jewish peo-ple are so articulated with the social and industrialactivities of our country that this matter perhaps doesnot appeal to them as strongly as to the members of thisrace who have given the matter personal study and con-sideration .

"I would be in favor of action by the United StatesGovernment along the line of the British declaration, andcan see no reason why this action cannot well be takenat the present moment. Many of the Jewish people arenow giving their lives on the field of battle that ournational ideals may prevail in this great conflict ; and bytheir patriotism to this country they have demonstratedthe fact that citizenship here means much to them . Theidealism and pride of ancestry which leads members ofthe Jewish race to long for a recognition and a place in thehome of their ancestors is to be commended .

"I shall be very glad, indeed, to keep in touch withthis work and assist the movement in any way I can ."

(Signed) "THOMAS S. CRAGO ."

By Representative George P. Darrow,Of Pennsylvania.

"I am heartily in accord with the movement to estab-lish a Jewish Homeland in Palestine in accordance withthe official declarations of our Allies. I fully recognizethe many fine qualities of the Jewish people, and if, as Iunderstood, it is their ambition and desire to establishsuch a community, I shall be glad to render any pos-sible assistance to them, either in supporting an appro-priate resolution by Congress or otherwise ."

(Signed) "GEORGE P. DARROW."

ApprovesDeclarationof Allies.

CommendsJewishNationalAspirations.

Will SupportCongressResolution .



Sees Justiceof Claims .

Wants OurGovernmentto Act.

By Representative George W. Edmonds,Of Pennsylvania.

"I heartily approve of the action of England, Franceand Italy on the Zionist question .

"For centuries the Jewish people have been withouta national existence, and have been scattered among allthe nations of the earth . They have, however, been ableto produce many of the leaders of thought and action inall lines of endeavors, and it would seem only properthat they should have a home country where they canhave a distinct nationality, showing the world theircapabilities.

"I would be in favor of action on the part of theUnited States Government along similar lines of that ofthe English Government, and believe that it should bedone at as early a date as possible."

(Signed) "G. W . EDMONDS."

192

By Representative John R. Farr,Of Pennsylvania .

"It was very gratifying to me to learn of the declara-tions in favor of a Jewish Homeland in Palestine, asissued by the governments of Great Britain, France andItaly. I was particularly delighted to read that greatletter in support of Zionism, written by President Wil-son to the Zionists of America . I am thoroughly in sym-pathy with this fine movement for the restoration of theJews to their old home, a restoration which has come tothe children of Jacob after waiting for it impatiently formany centuries.

"Let it be clearly understood, as the Balfour declara-tion well states it, that not only will the civil and reli-gious rights of the non-Jewish communities in Palestinenot suffer in the least by this newly established JewishState in that land, but also that all the Jews in the manyother lands shall not be deprived of any political andsocial rights .

"As I understand it, there are about fourteen millionJews in the world . Palestine at present can accommodatebut one-fifth of that number . It is possible that later onGreater Palestine may be able to accommodate com-fortably about one-third of the Jews of the world . Thusit must be very evident that the great majority of theJews will still remain in the countries where they arenow. I do not believe that the Jews in the more enlight-ened countries will go to Palestine to any great extent .In fact, that is not necessary nor even desirable or pos-sibly wanted by the Zionists themselves . If the newJewish State will become the real genuine home for thatminority of the Hebrews it will have accomplished itspurpose superbly. But I know that it is bound to bemore . It will have a tremendous influence on the Jewsall over the world in every possible way . It will enhancetheir old and great civilization, and will bring to themthat pride and glory which they had been wanting fortwo thousand years .

"President Wilson has spoken in its favor in wordsunmistakable . I believe that the country should also

193

ThoroughlySympathizeswith Move-ment.

Rights forInhabitants .

State toReflect Gloryon All Jews .

FavorsResolutionin Congress.


JewishGovernmentfor Pales-tine.

speak its mind for Zionism and the restoration of thesemillions of Jews to Palestine through a proper resolu-tion in Congress . I feel certain it will receive the sup-port of everyone, and will be gladly hailed by allAmericans ."

(Signed) "JOHN R. FARR."

By Representative Benjamin K. Focht,Of Pennsylvania.

"If it is the hope and ambition of the Jews to havePalestine set apart for a Jewish Government, organizedand administered under the consent of the governed, Iam heartily in accord with such purpose . In the pres-ence of the world conflict and the hope we all entertainfor humanity as an outcome of our successful waragainst Germany, I should like to see hereafter all gov-ernments that are set up founded on the same broad,popular idea which underlies our own great Republic .In other words, the hour has struck for the divine rightbusiness to disappear, together with the boiler-platenobility and the privilege which has gone with thesecounterfeit masqueraders ."

(Signed) "B. K . FocHT."

By Representative Manlon M. Garland,Of Pennsylvania .

Favors a "I wish to assure you that I am in entire accord withResolution the project to establish a National Home for the Jewishby congress. people in Palestine, and such lawful legislation as may

be introduced for that purpose I shall gladly supportwhile in Congress."

(Signed) "M. M . GARLAND ."

194

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative George Scott Graham,Of Pennsylvania.

"I have read with interest the declaration of theHonorable Arthur J. Balfour, and I approve and am en-tirely in accord with the sentiment expressed therein .

"I am of the opinion that the establishment of aNational Homeland in Palestine would be in accordancewith the eternal fitness of things . There is no land inthe world toward which the thoughts of all Christianpeople turn with greater intensity of interest than to theland of Palestine .

"The restoration of a national life for the Jewishpeople would help to give them a greater place andstanding in the world. They have survived misfortunes,persecutions and oppressions, and made for themselvesnotwithstanding all these detracting and depressing in-fluences, an enviable place among the people whereinthey dwell.

"I would favor action of the United States Govern-ment in line with the British declaration not at the pres-ent moment but in the future, and an expression in theform of a resolution by Congress favoring the establish-ment in Palestine of the Jewish National Centre ."

(Signed) "GEORGE S. GRAHAM ."

By Representative M. Clyde Kelly,Of Pennsylvania .

"Permit me to congratulate you on the splendidwork you are doing for the establishment of a JewishHomeland in Palestine. The dream of devoted men andwomen for centuries is soon to become an establishedfact. History records the fact that no invading nationhas ever really conquered Zion. Successive waves ofassailants rolled over Palestine but none of them assimi-lated it. The Turks have only been barbarian possessors,ruling as outsiders. Always, the sons of Abraham re-mained undestroyed as a distinct and noble race, await-ing the day of homecoming. That day is almost hereand all who are hastening its coming are to be com-mended, whoever they are and wherever they are."

(Signed) "M. CLYDE KELLY."195


RestorationentirelyFitting.

Will ImproveJewishStatus.

FavorsCongres-sionalLegislation.

Conquerorsnever As-similatedZion .


FavorsDeclara-tions .


Common .Sense Viewand For-ward Step .

FavorsCongressResolution .

By Representative Edgar R. Kiess,Of Pennsylvania.

"I wish to say that personally I favor the establish-ment of a Jewish Homeland in Palestine in accordancewith the official declarations of the United States, GreatBritain, France, and Italy ."

(Signed) "EDGAR R. KIEss .

By Representative Aaron S. Kreider,Of Pennsylvania .

"I am glad to have the opportunity to say that Ithoroughly approve the official Declarations of England,France, and Italy on the Zionist question .

"The British Government is to be complimented onthe common-sense view and forward step they have taken .The re-establishment of the Jewish Nation in its historicland is a sentiment of long standing, and it is to behoped that the Western World, and the United Statesin particular, will lend its influence to this movement .

"I shall be very glad to support any appropriateresolution on the part of Congress in favor of the estab-lishment in Palestine of a Jewish Homeland ."

(Signed) "A. S . KREIDER."

196

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative J . Hampton Moore,Of Pennsylvania.

"The views of the foreign potentiaries as expressedin the Allied Declarations for a Jewish Homeland inPalestine, impressed me favorably as tending to bringabout some international understanding that wouldvouchsafe the solidity and permanence of the insti-tution desired .

"It would certainly be helpful if such international en-couragement could be secured. I assume, however, thatthe nations will take time to inquire into such detailsof the plan as might involve the rights of other peoplenot directly participating in the Zionist scheme . TheZionists, no doubt, will strive in due course to makethese matters known throughout the world .

"Realizing the difficulties the Jewish people have en-countered through the centuries and are now encounter-ing in certain foreign countries to hold and sustain a justand deserved status in matters civil and political, Iwould hope that their ambition to attain what is calledà Jewish National Center' might ultimately be realized .There will be reason to rejoice when it can no longer besaid of the Jew that he is a man without a country."

(Signed) "J . HAMPTON MOORE ."

197

FavorablyImpressedby Declara-tions.

Secure theNations' Co-operation.

JewishPeopleHomelessNo Longer.


EntireSympathyWith Dec-larations .

IndorsesBasleProgram .

AcceptsExpressionof Brandeis.

IndorsementDoes notImpairLoyalty toAmerica .

By Representative John M . Morin,Of Pennsylvania.

"I am in entire sympathy with the declaration con-tained in the letter of Mr . A. J. Balfour, Secretary ofState for Foreign Affairs, dated November 2, 1917, andaddressed to Lord Rothschild. That letter states thatthe British Declaration of sympathy with Zionisticaspirations had been submitted and approved by theEnglish Cabinet . Further declarations to the same endhave also been put forth by France and Italy.

"I am in favor of establishing in Palestine that kindof a home which is contemplated by the organic law ofthe Zionist movement as formulated in the Basel pro-gram of August, 1897. This program was adopted bythe first Congress of Jews which met at Basel in Switzer-land under the leadership of the great Dr . TheodoreHerzl. Its basic declaration was that the object ofZionism is the creation for the Jewish people of a homein Palestine, secured by public international law . This isto say, there can not be established in Palestine anygreat home for the Jewish people which shall not beapproved by civilized public opinion, as embodied inthe organic law of the world . These great ideas aregiven further exposition by the eminent Mr . JusticeLouis Brandeis in the following language :

"'Zionism seeks to establish in Palestine, for suchJews as choose to go and remain there, and for theirdescendants, a legally secured home, where they may livetogether and lead a Jewish life, where they may expectultimately to constitute a majority of the population, andmay look forward to what we should call home rule .'

"In view of these facts, I can not see how anybody,Jewish or non-Jewish, can be opposed to Zionist aspira-tions. It seems to me that any Jew who is a Zionist mustbe not alone a better Jew for that fact, but also a betterAmerican, because by supporting the Zionistic ideal heis supporting the liberty of his own great and distin-guished race in the world, while at the same time notin the slightest impairing the loyalty which he owesfirst and above all to America . Intelligent non-Jews

198

The American War Congress and Zionismcan certainly find nothing in the Zionist platform whichis not in thorough accord with the democratic traditionsof America and the principles of peace as they have beenenunciated by President Wilson .

"It is the hope of America that in Abraham Lincoln'sphrase àll men everywhere may be free' ; and that allpeoples, whether great or small, shall have the right towork out their own destinies unhampered by tyranny.The Jewish people have suffered perhaps more than anyother people from persecution of various kinds. It isonly an act of justice that not alone shall full civil andreligious rights be granted to them in all lands, but thatthey shall have the right to establish in their ancienthome a land of their own where such pioneering spiritsamong them as may desire to do so shall be free to setup characteristic Jewish institutions and to build up acharacteristic Jewish life and culture.

"There is no compulsion in the Zionistic movement,as I understand it, that any man in any land shall returnto Zion. It does not contemplate a removal of all theJews of the world to Palestine, because Palestineat mostcould not accommodate more than one-fifth of the four-teen million Jews that there are in the world .

"To my mind the establishment of a national homefor the Jewish people seems practicable, when we con-sider that in twenty years between the Basel program ofAugust, 1897, and the declaration of the British Govern-ment of November, 1917, the Jewish people have estab-lished over forty colonies in the Holy Land, have revivi,fled the Hebrew language, have organized the Zionisticmovement in all civilized lands, and have already givento the world through this movement such great leaders asHerzl, Aaronsohn, the discoverer of wild wheat, Weiz-mann, the head of the English Zionists, and have beenable to arouse the sympathy and labors of such men asMax Nordau, Sokolow, Lord Rothschild, Justice Bran-deis, and innumerable other great men.

"There are a number of Jewish people in my con-stituency, and from my personal contact with them Iknow that the Zionistic movement has been a splendidly

199

Free to Es-tablishJewishInstitutions.

No Compul-sion inMovement .

Colonizationand HebrewRevivalAugurSuccess.

HoldsPromise forJews andnon-Jews.


ExecutiveAction.CongressResolution.

Jews MustWork OutTheirDestiny .

No Govern-mentalInterventionin Future.

idealistic one. Any movement which can bring suchfruits of a deeper and better life to a people, and promisecorrespondingly great contributions to the world, mustsurely be supported by all men to whom the cause ofliberty and of free life for all peoples, no matter howgreat or how small, is dear.

"Under the circumstances I cannot but favor actionby the United States Government in line with the Britishdeclaration as soon as that may seem wise to the Exec-utive, for it is on the part of the Executive that suchaction must be looked forward to under our system ofgovernment. I, personally, would be strongly in favorof the adoption of an appropriate resolution by Congressin favor of the establishment in Palestine of a JewishNational center ."

(Signed) "JOHN M. MORIN."

By Representative Edward E. Robbins$Of Pennsylvania.

"I have not given this matter any special thought.My idea of it is that the Jewish people should determinetheir own destiny, and that no government should inter-fere or attempt to establish the Jewish people in anypart of the world as a segregated people or interferewith their working out their own future. One of theresults of this war will be to bring about better under-standing among the various nations of the world andamong the various religious denominations of the worldand I believe much of the prejudice that has existedbetween these divisions of men will disappear .

"We are about to enter upon a period of universalbrotherhood of man and fatherhood of God, and govern-ment upon a higher plane, religion upon lines laid downin the Old and New Testament by the prophets and byour Lord. I think the future holds for all of us betterconditions, nobler opportunities for service for eachother, and I believe in this new period of the world,upon which we are about to enter, that the people of theworld will work out their own destinies without any gov-ernment interfering therewith, and among these peopleswill be the Jews . Just what that destiny is I am unableto say, but I think they should be permitted to work itout in their own way unhindered and unimpeded ."

(Signed) "EDWARD E. ROBBINs."200

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative John M. Rose,Of Pennsylvania.

"I am now, and always have been, in accord withthe proposition for the establishment in Palestine of anational home for the Jewish people .

"My thought is that the declaration of which mentionhas been made, will only result in bringing about a situ-ation to which the Jewish people of the world are en-titled and restore them to conditions which were ruth-lessly destroyed without just cause .

"I have attended a number of meetings of the repre-sentative Jewish people in the district I have the honorto represent, and my judgment is that the people in gen-eral are in sympathy with the present movement inbehalf of the Jew .

"The outstanding feature of the proposition is thefact that no Jew will be compelled to reside within thelimits of Palestine should the National Home be estab-lished there, and he should rejoice in the fact that hisrights are about to be recognized . It remains with himto accept or refuse."

(Signed) "JOHN M. ROSE."

201

Approves ofProject.

JewsEntitled toNationalHome.

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Bruce F . Sterling,Of Pennsylvania .

MattJewish

"One of the most prominent virtues of any race orAwakening nation is its self-consciousness . If a nation or peopleInspiring. loses this instinct of self it might just as leave be

merged in the strong streams of the rest of humanityand disappear from the earth . It was thought by somethat although religiously distinct and self-expressive, theJews of the world had finally given up their two-scorecenturies' ambition as a nation, and were ready to beabsorbed among the other nations of the globe. This,at least, was the conception of the non-Jewish world, and,if I am not mistaken even by some of the children ofIsrael.

"It is, therefore, most refreshing and inspiring tolearn of this great movement of Jewish Nationlism, calledZionism. From the days of Herzl down to the presentmoment, under the leadership of our own celebratedAmerican citizen, Justice Brandeis, Zionism, as I under-stand it, has progressed and prospered by leaps andbounds. The former religious aspect of Zionism wasaugmented, in modern days, by the distinct nationalspirit of the Jewish leaders of the present . The move-ment among the Hebrews arouses all the aspiration andhopes and even religious ecstacies, that may have becomedormant in these troublesome days, days of revolutionsand epoch-making. This is a distinct gain to the com-bined progress and welfare of the earth as it is to theJews themselves .

"November 2, 1917, opens a golden page in modernJewish history . On that day, Great Britain pledged it-self in support of Zionism, and for the establishmentof a Jewish Homeland in Palestine. This, followed bysimilar declarations on the part of France and Italy,and all the others who are allied against Germany,brought the Jewish question in its most vital points to thefore in the diplomacy of the world . The solution tothis question, with all the democratic powers, includingthat of the United States, siding with the purposes andaspirations of the Jewish National Movement, will and

202

The American War Congress and Zionismmust be favorable to the Jewish people . I see, as aresult of the coming peace, a Jewish nation inhabitingthe old Jewish State, prospering in the land of its fore-fathers, and serving as a guiding post to the religiousand ethical movements of all nations."

(Signed) "BRUCE F. STERLING ."

By Representative Nathan L. Strong,Of Pennsylvania .

"I have never had occasion to give the matter specialstudy, and my views are based only on the informationI have obtained from general reading on the subject .I can, therefore, only state in general terms that I am insympathy with the movement and approve the severalpropositions set forth in your communication ."

(Signed) "NATHAN L. STRONG ."

By Representative Henry W. Temple,Of Pennsylvania.

"I have read with a great deal of interest the declara-tion of the British Government favoring the establish-ment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewishpeople and the endorsements of this declaration by theFrench and British Governments .

"I hope the policy thus announced will receive theapproval and support of all who may be able to con-tribute to its accomplishment ."

(Signed) "HENRY W. TEMPLE."

203

In Sym-pathywithZionism.

WishesSuccess .

The American Wear Congress and Zionism

WantsCongressto Act .

Willingto Assist .

By Representative Thomas W. Templeton,Of Pennsylvania.

"I am in hearty accord with the declarations of Eng-land, France, and Italy on the Zionist question, andshall be glad to favor some action on the part of theCongress of the United States expressing our willingnessto lend assistance and influence toward making a realityof what the Jewish people have long hoped for, namely,a return to the Holy Land . The Jews are the naturalguardians of that land, and the Holy Places therein .Many, of course, would not avail themselves of the op-portunity to return because they have become a part ofour land and institutions . And it is well that it is so,for we would miss their many sterling qualities manifestin the various activities of our national existence . Onthe other hand, however, many of the Jewish peoplewould welcome the opportunity to return to the land oftheir ancestors .

"I shall be glad to think on this question, and willwatch and assist the movement in any way I can ."

(Signed) "T. W. TEMPLETON."

204

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative William S. Vare,Of Pennsylvania .

"I feel that the Jews of the world cannot want toregain their rule over Palestine any more than theChristians want them to regain it. It would take only asmall per cent of the Jews of the world to repopulatethe Holy Land and re-establish their former home .There are thousands who want to go and there are otherthousands who are eager to help them do so shouldPalestine be restored to the Jews, as outlined in the offi-cial British Declaration. These thousands, who arebound to increase into the millions later, will form, withthose already there, a nucleus to one of the best futurestates of the modern world .

"Zionism regained means to the Jews Paradise re-gained after it had been lost . It will fill the hearts ofthe Jews in many lands, who are and will remain citi-zens of those lands, full of joy and pride to know thattheir ancient land, the land of their civilization andculture, has again been established and a Jewish govern-ment formed among the other governments of the world .I would suggest that Jewish representatives, of the futurestate of Palestine, be requested and invited to attend thedeliberations at the peace table, so as to insure absolutejustice to them .

"I am in favor of a resolution to be introduced in .Congress embodying the ideas I have here expressed andhope that such a step will be taken in the near future."

(Signed) "WM. S. VARE ."

By Representative Henry W. Watson,Of Pennsylvania.

"I favor the Jewish Homeland in Palestine as de- Wilt supportGlared by England, France and Italy, and will support . Appropriatean appropriate resolution by Congress, if it sets forth Resolut

the principles as stated in the British declaration ."(Signed) "HENRY W. WATSON."

205

To BeDesired byJews andGentiles .

For ZionistRepresenta-tion at PeaceConference.

HopesCongressWill Act.

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Commissioner Jaime C. DeVeyra,Of the Philippine Islands .

"I am heartily in sympathy with the official declara-tions of Great Britain, France and Italy, favoring aJewish Homeland in Palestine, and especially with theenthusiastic statement of President Wilson on the Zionistquestion . I am anxious to have my voice in favor ofthe declaration of the British Government, reading asfollows :

"His Majesty's Government views with favor the es-tablishment in Palestine of a National Home for theJewish people and will use its best endeavors to facilitatethe achievement of this object, it being clearly under-stood that nothing shall be done which may prejudicethe civil and religious rights of non-Jewish communitiesin Palestine, or the rights and political status enjoyedby Jews in any other country .

"I will do all I can when the opportunity may presentitself to aid it in my own humble way .

"I am in complete accord with the principles of self-determination of all nationalities as laid down by Presi-dent Wilson to apply to all peoples and races, certainlywith no exception to the Jewish people and to the Jewishnation. Doubtless, you are aware that we, the Philip-pinos, have been working constantly towards the sameend-the freedom and independence of the Philippines,which we hope will be accomplished at a date not fardistant. To oppose the aspirations of your people or ofany people to establish a free government in their ownway would indeed be contrary to our own ideals andprinciples .

Confident of

"I, therefore, sympathize with your cause and feelRealization . confident that with the official declarations of the Great

Powers above-mentioned, your plan of a future home inPalestine will soon be realized ."

(Signed) "JAIME C. DEVEYRA ."

IndorsesOfficialDeclara-tions.

For Self-Determina-tion with-out Excep-tion.

206

By Commissioner Teodoro R . Yangco,Of the Philippine Islands.

"I am very much in sympathy with the Nationalaspirations of the Jewish people everywhere for the for-mation of an independent State in Palestine . I consideran expression of right and justice that England, Franceand Italy, should have declared themselves in support ofthis Zionist tendency among the Jews . It is my fondhope and sincere wish that, as a result of this Worldstruggle, the Jewish State may emerge, and I know thatit is proper. These expressions on my part are not meresentiments. They are well founded by reason and under-standing of the question and of similar movements . Icannot help but have the greatest trust in Zionism, andhave the highest admiration for this Jewish Nationalmovement. We Filipinos feel with the Jews in theiraspirations, for many of our problems, to a certain de-gree, are also those of the Jewish problem. The endof the war will mark the independence of the JewishNation, which, I hope, would be followed by the inde-pendence of the Philippine Islands . I feel that our free-dom will be greeted by the Jews of the world just as weFilipinos are ready to greet your rejuvenation . MayZionism prove the solution to the many problems thatconfronted the Jews for thousands of years ."

(Signed) "TEODORo R. YANGCO."

207

PhilippinesUnderstandand Appre-ciateNationalHope.


Porto RicoApproves ofZionists.

AppreciatesSelf-Gov-ernment .

Idea ofNationalCenterAppeals.

WantsCongressto Act .

LiberalsIndorseMovement.

By Commissioner Felix Cordova Davila,Of Porto Rico.

"The people of Porto Rico who enjoy the privilegeof fighting side by side with their brothers from theStates on the farflung battle line in France, are neverthe-less by reason of their insular situation, numberedamong the "Smaller Peoples" of the Earth, and as suchthey are in full accord and sympathy with the ZionistMovement.

"Proud of the honor conferred to us by the greatRepublic of America we are prompt to contribute to thefull measure of our resources in this world war for theestablishment of ideals and self-government .

"That is why the establishment in Palestine of aJewish National Centre appeals to our people . If theproposed government is organized under guarantees thatwill not prejudice the civil and religious rights of non-Jewish peoples it must meet with universal approval ."

(Signed) "FELIX CoRnovA DAvIIA."

By Representative George F . O'Shaunessy,Of Rhode Island.

"I endorse most heartily the official declaration ofGreat Britain in favor of the establishment of a NationalHome in Palestine for the Jewish People, and trust thatthe American Congress will take similar action in thenear future .

"The cherished dreams of the Jewish people wouldbe realized under such action, and their status as anation established. Every liberal thinker wishes God-speed to any movement calculated to soften the blowsgiven to the harassed and persecuted Jew, for sugar-coatit as we will he has been persecuted . I wish the move-ment every success." (Signed) "G. F . O'StAUNESSY ."

208

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Walter R . Stiness,Of Rhode Island.

"I am in favor of the British declaration for a JewishHomeland in Palestine and would be glad to give thispromise my utmost support . I heartily endorse theZionist movement in the hope that it will solve theJewish problem forever. I am certain that all liberal-minded people are ready to aid in the achievement ofthe purposes .

"The end of the war is bound to see a happier worldand with this happy world, a spiritual rejoicing of manyof the smaller nationalities which have been oppressedby autocratic powers . Perhaps the Jews will more thanall others rejoice in this new glory ."

(Signed) "WALTER R. STINESS ."

By Representative Samuel J. Nicholls,Of South Carolina.

"I wish to state that my sympathies are with theZionists, although I am unable to understand exactlywhat is meant by À National Home .' However, I feelsure that when the statement was issued through theBritish press on this subject, they meant to use thewords in a very broad and far-reaching sense.

"The Jewish race has had a wonderful career, andhas come through in a manner most commendable, andI do not think the rights and religion of this race shouldbe looked at in a prejudiced manner by the civilizedworld . To my mind I always associate Jerusalem withthe Jews and think of no race which has a more sacredright to become the guardians of the city, with its manyHoly Associations.

"I hope that the United States government will seefit to take action in line with Great Britain's governmentand I would personally favor appropriate resolutionsbeing adopted in Congress looking toward the establish-ment of a Jewish National Centre in Palestine ."

(Signed) "SAM . J . NICHOLLS."

209

Will Assist.Confident ofSupport ofLiberals.

Sympathizeswith Na-tional Hope .

Would Seethe JewsGuardJerusalem .

Wants Ac-tion byExecutiveandCongress .


Formationof JewishState In-evitable.

ApprovesDeclaration.WantsDemocraciesto Act .

By Representative William F. Stevenson,Of South Carolina .

"I wish to say that it not only seems to me inevitablebut wise to form a Jewish State in Palestine under theprotection of the English speaking races and nations ofthe world with whom the French will surely co-operate .Armenia and Palestine should be put in the same cate-gory and allowed to work out their respective destiniesfreed from the unutterable cruelties to which they havebeen subjected for centuries ."

(Signed) "W. F. STEVENSON."

By Representative Charles H. Dillon,Of South Dakota .

"I approve the British Declaration favoring the re-establishment of the Jewish homeland in Palestine .

"I favor appropriate action by the democratic gov-ernments to effect the practical consummation of theabove declaration ."

(Signed) "C . - H. DILLON."

By Representative Harry L . Gandy,Of South Dakota.

Declarations

"I am in sympathy with the Zionist movement andWise

and

feel that the declarations of England, France and Italy,are wise and just.

Hopes to See

"I can well understand the sentiment which promptsZionismRealized.

Rthe Jewish Ppeople to desire the re-establishment of aJewish national home in Palestine and certainly a wayought to be open to give this to those who desire to gothere."

(Signed) "HARRY L. GANDY."

Hopes forSolution ofJewishProblem .

By Representative Richard W. Austin,Of Tennessee .

"I would be in favor of any proposition which wouldtend to benefit the Jewish race and I hope to find timein the near future to give Zionism the attention it merits ."

(Signed) "R. W. AUSTIN ."

210

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Joseph W. Byrne,Of Tennessee .

"I am very much in sympathy with all of the aspira-tions of this splendid race of people which has con-tributed so much to the upbuilding of our own country .I regret, however, to say that I have not had the oppor-tunity to give the question of Zionism that thoroughstudy and investigation to make my views either inter-esting or valuable ." (Signed) "JOSEPH W. BYRNS ."

By Representative Finis J . Garrett,Of Tennessee .

"I am not entirely clear as to the interpretationsplaced upon the utterances of Mr. Balfour and am not,therefore, prepared to give a categorical opinion . I maystate, however, that my sympathies have been long en-listed in behalf of the conception of the establishmentin the Holy Land of a Jewish Nation, provided, always,this net with the desire of the Jewish people ."

(Signed) "FINIS J. GARRETT."

By Representative William C . Houston,Of Tennessee.

"I am heartily in sympathy with the effort of theJewish people to establish a National House at Pales-tine. In fact, I am in sympathy with the purpose in-volved to secure action on Zionism by the Governmentof the United States as well as a Resolution in Congressto the same effect ."

(Signed) "W. C. HOUSTON."

By Representative Cordell Hull,Of Tennessee.

"Jewish re-establishment in Palestine is a matterwhich should be governed by the wishes and the welfareof those affected or to be affected by the proposed plan .I should be in entire harmony with such a solution ofthe question."

(Signed) "CORDELL HULL."

211

Sympathizeswith JewishAspirations .

Long inSympathyWithZionism .

SympathizeswithZionism.HopesUnitedStatesWill Act .

Re-establish .ment to beDecided byAll Con-cerned.


RealizationWill BenefitJews andPalestine.

IndorsesBalfourDeclaration.

RestorationFitting andProper.

Action isOne forExecutive.

In HeartyAccordwith Dec-larations.

By Representative Lemuel P . Padgett,Of Tennessee .

"I regard the movement to establish a Jewish Home-land in Palestine as a good movement for the reorganiza-tion and rehabilitation of Palestine, and also a goodmovement for all Jews who may be desirous of availingthemselves of the opportunity of returning to Palestine,and for the rehabilitation of oppressed Jews in othercountries . I should be very glad to see it succeed ."

(Signed) "L. P . PADGETT."

By Representative Eugene Black,Of Texas.

"I regard Mr. Balfour, Secretary of State for For-eign Affairs for Great Britain, as one of the world'sgreat statesmen, and I have read with much interest hisstatement on this question which is of such interest tothe Jewish people and their friends everywhere . I in-dorse it .

"My reason for approving it is that the Jewish peoplehave made such a large contribution to the world's storeof religion, philanthropy, and humanitarianism, that Ithink that it would be fitting and proper that they shouldagain be restored to their ancient city-Jerusalem-anddwell once more in the land of their fathers, that is tosay, as many of them as would care to do so .

"I think, however, that any declaration of policyalong this particular line, in so far as the United States isconcerned, should be initiated by the President, inas-much as our Foreign affairs are largely shaped by theExecutive branch of the Government ."

(Signed) "EUGENE BLACK."

By Representative Thomas L. Blanton,Of Texas.

"I am in hearty accord with the official Declarationsof the United States, Great Britain, France and Italy,concerning the question of a Jewish Home Land inPalestine."

(Signed) "THoMAS L . BLANTON."

212

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative James P. Buchanan,Of Texas.

"I have held a profound interest and sympathy forany competent people in obtaining an independenthome and government, and this feeling for the Jews,long entertained, is more pronounced in these acutetimes. Therefore, I approve the indorsement by Eng-land, France and Italy, of the proposed National Homein Palestine by and for the Jewish people .

"Our American ideals are not selfish nor exclusive .They include the Jew, and especially so because of theobvious merit of the self-governing principle that hasalways characterized that remarkably capable race .

"I will gladly co-operate in any well consideredmeasure to benefit the people with whom is associatedsuch an historic past, and if that great race develops anopportune destiny by the re-occupation of its ancientheritage in the Judean country, it will please me beyondmeasure to witness the wonderful home-gathering intheir native land .

"I will approve the indorsement, by any and all ofthe constituted authorities of the United States, of what-ever wise and independent movement is inaugurated bythe Jews to attain National independence and a NationalHome in Palestine.

j

"There is no doubt in my mind of the prevailingAmerican sentiment for the successful attainment of theust and well deserved aspiration of the Jewish world

to re-establish itself in the Oriental Country of its originand historic abode." (Signed) "J . P. BUCHANAN ."

By Representative Joe H . Eagle,Of Texas.

"I am unalterably opposed to the Turk continuinghis domination in the land of Palestine after this war .Whatever the Allies may do with Palestine after the warwill have my whole support . I would like to see an in-dependent Jewish state established there under the pro-tection of the United States and our gallant Allies ."

(Signed) "JOE H. EAGLE."213

Our Idealsof Self-governmentMustIncludethe Jew.

Gratified byComingRe-establish-ment .

FavorsUnitedStatesIndorsement.

AmericansentimentFavorsZionism .

End TurkishDomination .EstablishJewishState.


HumanFamilyOwes Debtto Jews.

RestoreTheir Landto theChildren ofAbraham .

Put Dec-larationsinto Effect .

By Representative Rufus Hardy,Of Texas.

"The Jewish people have contributed so much ofbenefit to the whole human family that it seems to methe whole human family owes them a great debt . Tothe songs of David and the book of Job happily trans-lated into English by genius if not by inspiration, weowe a great part of the beauty and imagery and grandeurof our noble tongue. From Genesis to Malachi in theold testament as we have it, we have a heritage of poetry,of philosophy, of literature, of law, of history, and ofreligion which furnishes inexhaustible stores of rawmaterial for the uses of all the ages ; while the new testa-ment has given us the lessons of undoubtedly the greatestteacher of all times. Nearly two thousand years havepassed since the people who gave us all these thingshave been a nation without a habitation though not with-out a name, a people scattered over all the earth, oftenthe object of bitter hatred and persecution, enduringoppressions and hardships in almost every country andin every age until now . The land that was given as aheritage to Abraham to Isaac and to Jacob has beentaken from their children and made the football of theNations and religions and sects. For centuries it hasbeen under the dominion of the Turk, who has proven acruel master. Why should not the Nations give it backto the Jewish race and thus in part repay the age-olddebt we owe them? I am in hearty sympathy with thesuggestion of the British Government as I understand it ."

(Signed) "RuFus HARDY."

By Representative Jeff. McLemore,Of Texas .

"I beg to say that the proposition of a Jewish Home-land in Palestine, in accordance with the official British,French and Italian Declarations meets with my full ap-proval, and I shall be glad to see the Declaration putinto effect."

(Signed) "JEFF. MCLEMORE ."

214


By Representative Joseph J. Mansfield,Of Texas.

"I favor appropriate action by the Democratic Gov-ernments to effect the practical consummation of theBritish Declaration approving the re-establishment ofthe Jewish Homeland in Palestine ."

(Signed) "J. J . MANSFIELD ."

By Representative James L. Slayden,Of Texas.

"I have given my cordial endorsement and will un-hesitatingly give my official support to the suggestionmade by Mr . Balfour, Secretary of State for ForeignAffairs, in England, for the establishment of a NationalHome for Jews in Palestine .

"President Wilson, as I understand it, is in sympathywith your suggestion also. I favor the declaration be-cause I think it an act of justice to these people whohave suffered much and are entitled to a home andcountry of their own. I am ready to help make the dec-laration on behalf of the United States Government nowor later, as the occasion may offer."

(Signed) "JAMES L. SLAYDEN ."

By Representative James C. Wilson,Of Texas .

"I wish to say that I like the idea . I shall be glad tosupport this Zionist plan personally and in every way

can .

(Signed) "JAMES C. WILSON."

215

Wants Dec-laration Putinto Effect

IndorsesDeclarations .

BelievesRestorationJust.PledgesSupport .

Will Sup-port Plan.


MovementWelcomedby Thought-ful Men .

Is Morethan aPoliticalExperiment .

Restorationof NationalIdentity .

Will EffectSpiritualRebirth .

By Representative Frank L. Greene,Of Vermont.

"A practical direction of the so-called Zionist move-ment that will result in the liberation of certain longpent, long stifled, energies of the Jewish race in the col-lective and organized expression and development ofthat which once made the world richer and better, mustbe welcomed by all thoughtful men and women .

"If I had the idea that this propaganda had for itspurpose merely another experiment in long familiarcolonization schemes, that it was merely a racially clan-nish movement for social, economic, and politicalachievement to take its place among the governments ofthe earth as another `nation' or `power,' I would notwrite these lines. I might not be altogether out of sym-pathy with it on broad grounds of the common interestof humanity in the doings of other members of thefamily, but I would say, without hesitation, that it wasno part of the business of Americans, as such, underexisting circumstances .

"But, I am given to understand that it has no suchaim or intention. I understand that the object of thismovement is to open an opportunity for some groups ofthe Jewish people outside of America, even in Palestine,itself, to restore their national identity in the land of theirancestors ; to welcome back to those venerated scenesmembers of the family scattered over the face of theearth who may desire thus to repatriate themselves ; andto hold out the promise of such an asylum to Jews who,with their forbears, for many centuries, have beenpolitically (and thus socially) oppressed and homelessin certain strange lands, but whose hearts' windows haveever been opened toward Jerusalem through it all .

"And this, I take it, not so much with the idea thatthere shall arise from such a reconstitution of Palestinea nation of world politicians and traffickers, as that fromthe return of this ancient people to their ancient seat bythe side of the Cradle of Civilization, the Mediterranean,the world shall hear once more the harp of Judah, thesongs of Zion, and the voices of the Hebrew prophets ; and

216


sages, poets and writers, of the mighty past shall ulti-mately sound again in the recreation of that intellectualsound and moral spirit that one time blessed the knownworld .

"If this is some day to mean the enlargement of theworld's social and spiritual life by reinforcement ofmuch that was sublime in ancient Jewish culture, it isto be welcomed."

(Signed) "FRANK L. GREENE."

211

WillEnhanceWorld'sCulture.



FavorsUnitedStatesAction.

Will freelyPursueTheir OwnAspirations .

RestorationWill ProveGood For-tune forAll Jews.

By Representative Edward W. Saunders.Of Virginia.

"I am in hearty accord with the sentiments and pur-poses expressed in the official declarations of England,France and Italy, on the Zionist question.

"I favor prompt action by the United States Govern-ment in line with the British Declaration .

"I favor the adoption of an appropriate resolutionby the American Congress in favor of the establishmentin Palestine of a Jewish National Centre. The wonderfulcareer of the Jewish people under the most adverse con-ditions, entitles them to the aid of all the civilized na-tions in this effort to re-establish themselves in theirhistoric home, as a self-governing community, free towork out their own ideals and aspirations, under the pro-tection of the Great Powers . The new conditions thatwill prevail in Palestine, after the expulsion of theTurk, the opportunities that will then be afforded, forthe first time in centuries for the Jews to pursue life,liberty, and happiness, amid the surroundings that re-call Solomon, David, Joshua, and other great men oftheir race, sages, and warriors, will afford an inspira-tion to the Jews not only in Palestine, but in every otherquarter of the world . Under the happy auspices pro-posed to be established, Palestine should again becomea land flowing with milk and honey, and furnish a home-land for the thousands now living under the harsh con-ditions imposed in so many countries of the old world .

"The occupation of Palestine by the British forceswas a happy day, not alone for the Jews in Palestine,who were thereby relieved from the oppressions ofTurkish tyranny, but for every Jew wheresoever abiding,who is faithful to the traditions of his race, and recallswith pride, the achievements of his people in that landover which the great lawgiver wistfully gazed, but wasforbidden to enter."

(Signed) "E. W. SAUriDERS."

218

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Walter A. Watson.Of Virginia .

"I am in entire accord with the aspirations of theJewish people to re-establish themselves in Palestine,provided it can be accomplished with due regard forthe rights and immunities of the native population . Ido not feel well enough acquainted with local conditionsthere to know when or by what means this can be bestaccomplished ; but looking to the permanent overthrowof the dominion of the Turk in that land in the nearfuture, I believe a suitable opportunity will be affordedthrough international agreement to make the experimentwhich the Jewish people have so much at heart and inwhich I take it the Gentile world sympathizes verycordially."

(Signed) "WALTER A. WATSON."

By Representative C. C . Dill,Of Washington.

"I write to congratulate you on your activity in con-nection with the establishment of a Jewish Homeland inPalestine. I believe such a movement is worthy of thehearty support of the American people. It may seem_ tomany only a dream, but it is one of those dreams whichshould be made to come true."

(Signed) "C. C . DILL."

By Representative Lindley H . Hadley,Of Washington .

"I know of no reason why such of the Jewish peopleas might desire to re-establish themselves in Palestineshould not be permitted to do so, but, on the contrary,such a result appeals to me favorably ."

(Signed) "L. W. HADLEY."

By Representative Albert Johnson,Of Washington.

"I am glad to endorse the Zionist Movement, forwhich you are giving such earnest work ."

(Signed) "ALBERT JOHNSON ."210

Approves ofRe-estab-lishment inPalestine.

MeritsSupport ofAmericanPeople.

Idea ofRe-estab-lishmentAppeals.

IndorsesZionistMovement .


JewsNaturalGuardiansof Palestine.

JewishSelf-De-terminationAccordswith OurWar Aims.

FavorsFormalRecognitionby UnitedStates.

MovementDeservesSuccess.

Entitledto Recog-nition ofNationality .

By Representative John F . Miller,Of Washington .

"The Jewish people are the natural guardians of theHoly Land, and it seems but just that at the close of thisworld struggle a Jewish state, based on the fundamentalsof justice and democracy, should be founded there . Itwas in the Holy Land that the race had its genesis ; itwas here that the race attained its national greatness ; itwas from here that the race was dispersed throughoutthe world ; so it should be here that the race again findsa dwelling place and a national home .

"We are fighting the present war for the right ofself-determination, and if we throw any barrier in theway of allowing the Jewish people this right, we shallbe false to the international ideal we have set up .

"I trust that this country will follow the example ofthe great nations, associated with us in this war, andwill formally recognize the right of the Jewish peopleto such a destiny. As a member of Congress, I will bepleased to support a resolution of this character .

"I am pleased to make this sentiment known, and Itrust that I may see this great national undertakingachieve the success it richly deserves ."

(Signed) "JOHN F. MILLER."

By Representative John A . Moon,Of Washington.

"The Jews of the world seem to desire to be recog-nized and localized as one great nation . The splendidpart that they have performed in their duties to man-kind entitle them to that distinction of nationality whichthey possessed before their separation . I think well ofthe declarations of England, France and Italy, on theZionist question, and hope that the aspirations of theJews may be realized, and that Palestine may becomethe home of all the Jews who desire to dwell therein ."

(Signed) "JOHN A. MOON."

220

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Edward Cooper,Of West Virginia .

"I approve strongly the declarations made by Eng-land, France and Italy, on the Zionist question, and trustthe United States through Congress will at an early dateadopt resolutions favoring the stand by our Allies. Afitting tribute to the valor of the Jews in our combinedfight for democracy would be the establishment of aNational Home in Palestine for the Jewish people. Ihope "History will repeat itself" and a condition arisethrough the fight for liberty and justice which will re-turn to the Jews their home.

"You can rest assured my sympathy is with yourpeople, and I shall at all times be ready and willing todo all within my power to bring about a condition ofaffairs which may be desired by them."

(Signed) "EDw . COOPER."

221

For Con-gressionalIndorsementof Declara-tions.

Willingto Help .

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Adam B. Littlepage,Of West Virginia .

Indorses

"My reasons for indorsing the Zionist movement andto NoZionismNormalize for favoring the British Declaration promising the estab-

Life of Jews . lishment of a Jewish Homeland in Palestine are verysimple and natural, indeed . The Jewish people have forthousands of years been an exception to the normal con-dition of other nations . This abnormality of the Jewsconsisted in being a nation without a country, a peoplewith a language that had been practically dead, and onethat had no rights of self-determination and self-govern-ment. There is no doubt that this abnormal state ofthe Jew had been one of the principal causes thatbrought about his persecution and that had arousedprejudice against him in the minds of many .

Lack of Self-

"This abnormal condition became even more acuteDeterminationCauseof

because of the fact that the land and country that right-Abnormality . fully belonged to Israel had been controlled for all these

centuries by a people opposed to Jews and Gentiles alike,that this language adjudged dead was the one in whichthe Old Testament was given to the world, and whileJews participated in every government on earth and con-tributed their talent and ability to all these governments,they were deprived of the opportunity to share in oneof their own . There is probably no other nation onearth whose misfortunes, caused by these conditions,were so well known all over the world and, recently, asequally regretted.

Pledges

"And now, after two thousand years of waiting andUtmost

longing, out of the ruin and desolation, the Jewish peoplesupport . is at last to build up its ancient heritage. It will obtainits inspiration of its mighty past from the soil whencesprung its great history . Who would dare resist thisnoble cause, and who would shirk the support of thislofty principle? I should deem it a privilege to sup-port this Zionist Movement to the utmost of my abilityat every proper occasion ."

(Signed) "ADAM B . LITTLEPAGE ."

222

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Stuart F. Reed,Of West Virginia.

"I feel that the Zionist movement is one of the great ShouldEnlist

events of the centuries, and should enlist the interest of Christianall Christendom ."

(Signed) "STUART F. REED."

Interest.

By Representative Edward E. Browne,Of Wisconsin.

"I fully approve of the actions of the British, Frenchand Italian Governments, in giving their official supportto the Zionist movement . The re-establishment of theJews in their ancient homeland is desirable not only fortheir own welfare, but must also prove beneficial to theother Governments of the world . I am heartily in favorthat our Government take similar action on this import-ant question . I feel confident that this step will be takenby the Government of the United States sooner or later .I should, furthermore, be glad to support an appropriateresolution by Congress in favor of the establishment inPalestine of a Jewish national center.

"I regard the effort of the Jewish people to estab-lish a national home in Palestine as a very laudabledesire, which should rightfully receive the support ofall Americans. This Holy Land should go back to theJews after being controlled by the uncivilized and bar-barous Turk for so many centuries . I hope that thegreat holy city where Christianity had its first humblebeginnings, will again be restored to the Jewish nation,its rightful owner ."

(Signed) "EDWARD E. BROWNE."

FavorsIndorsementby UnitedStates .

RestoreHoly Landto Jews-the RightfulOwners .


In HeartyAccord.

Believesin self .determina.lion.

ReturnPalestineto Jews.

By Representative William J. Cary,Of Wisconsin .

"You may be assured that I am in hearty accordwith the principles and underlying ideals of the BritishDeclaration and the Zionist movement .

"The strongest feeling of the human soul is theyearning for the land from which one and one's fathershave sprung, and this feeling has been the source ofsome of the noblest achievements of the human race,and as I have always been a consistent believer in therights of all people to self-determination, I am in deepsympathy with the efforts of the Jewish Race to achievetheir desire in regaining for themselves the cradle ofJudaism.

"Believing this and realizing the great crisis that isnow confronting the whole world, I am more thanpleased to be quoted as being in favor of the return ofPalestine to the Hebrew race."

(Signed) "WM. J. CARY."

224

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative David G. Classon,Of Wisconsin .

"The declarations of England and our other alliesin favor of a Jewish Homeland in Palestine has founda most responsive sentiment towards Zionism in myheart. Now that all these nations have vouched for therealization of Zionism, I can see no conceivable reasonto believe that any nation which will have a voice atthe peace table and in the reconstruction of the worldat the close of the war, will find any ground for oppos-ing the establishment of a Jewish state in Palestine .Everywhere the Jews have done their duty with men andmoney, cheerfully and fully, to the governments underwhich they live, as we all know in this country . Theproject, therefore, to help them in regaining their ancienthomeland appeals strongly to the historic, just, and reli-gious conscience of the world . A Palestinean Jewishrepublic would be advantageous to the Jews and to theother nations of the world .

"I know that few of the Jews of the liberal countrieswould go back to Palestine, but all of them in everyland would realize with pride and joy that a Jewish flagfloated over a state which was Jewish in language andreligion and where those of their faith and nationalitywho desired to go there, might live in happiness and inpeace.

"I am thus in favor of an appropriate resolution inthe Congress of the United States favoring a JewishHomeland in Palestine. I would not like to hear any-one refer any more to the Jews as the people without acountry. It is my hope that they will regain their land,revive their language, and live as free and prosperouscitizens of the land of Judea. Can anyone think of any-thing more beautiful and more just ."

(Signed) "DAVID G. CIASSON."

225

No Groundfor Oppo-sition.

Jews Every-whereMight TakePridein Figs.

Favors aCongres-slonalResolution.


In sym-pathy withZionism .

JusticeDemandsPalestinebe Restored .

HopesUnitedStatesWill Assist.

AmericanIndorsementWouldAccord withOur WarAims.

By Representative Henry A. Cooper,Of Wisconsin .

"The Principles of Zionism were first impressed uponmy mind several years ago through reading a speech byMr. Justice Brandeis . That speech was a forceful, elo-quent, convincing presentation of the fundamentals ofthe Zionist movement, and ever since reading it themovement has had my sympathy.

"To think of the Jewish people re-established inPalestine, their ancestral home, after twenty centuries ofbanishment, not only stirs the imagination and awakenssympathy, but it does far more than this, for it alsoappeals powerfully to one's sense of justice .

"I shall be glad to have the Government of theUnited States do all that it properly can do in further-ance of this essentially noble cause . This, of course, Isay with the understanding that non-Jewish residents ofPalestine shall forever enjoy such civil and religiousliberty as is now guaranteed by our Constitution to theJewish population in this Republic."

(Signed) "HENRY ALLEN COOPER."

By Representative John J. Esch,Of Wisconsin .

"I heartily approve the Declarations of England,France and Italy, on the Zionist question. The carryingout of such Declarations, with the endorsement thereofby our own government, will permit the realization ofthe hope of the Jewish people, not only in the UnitedStates, but throughout the world. It will mean the re-habilitation of the Holy Land and relief for all time tocome against Moslem tyranny and oppression. It willconstitute a fitting example of what America means by

Favors

self-definition of peoples based on racial lines .Resolution.

"If a resolution by Congress is necessary to this end,I favor it."

(Signed) "JOHN J . EscH."

226

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative James A. Freer,Of Wisconsin.

"The movement to provide a home for the Jewishpeople in Palestine, has brought to its support the lead-ing men of the world, including President Wilson ofour own Government, and this in itself is an effort, how .ever tardily put forth by the civilized world, to remedya wrong of centuries ago .

"During these days of war, when the same world isstriving by force of arms to adjust differences betweennations and people, it is well to note the effort on thepart of the Gentiles of the twentieth century in trying todo justice to the Jewish people .

"After all these centuries, during which the world'sattention has been focused upon the small country oncea center of great moral and religious awakening, it nowseems certain that a permanent home is to be establishedfor those who have never lost their longing for a Jewishhome in Palestine .

"It is one of the fruits of the world's war fought andwon for the helpless and oppressed of all nations ."

(Signed) "JAMES A. FREAR."

By Representative John M . Nelson,Of Wisconsin .

"I have not replied to your important letters, be-cause I have nothing to say on the subject of your in-quiry. This does not mean at all that I am unfriendlyto the return of your people to their Homeland .

"I prefer to be a silent observer . I am certain, how-ever, that Jerusalem will again be the seat of Govern-ment of the Jews ."

(Signed) "JOHN M. NELSON."

227

RemedyWrong ofCenturies.

Justice toJewishPeople .

PermanentJewishHome to BeEstablished.

Among theFruitsof War.

Prefers tobe Silent.PresagesSuccess .

The American War Congress and ZionismBy Representative Edward Voigt,Of Wisconsin.

"I gladly give my approval to the cause of Zionismand the proposal for the restoration of the Jewish na-tional status. I have some very good friends amongthe Jewish people, and know something about theiraspirations in this matter. No matter what form ofGovernment is provided in Palestine, it should be underthe protectorate of all the great nations, as a result ofthe treaty of peace, so that there may be no harm orhatred towards any of the inhabitants of that land.

"The Jews in the land of their forefathers should beguaranteed absolutely equal rights and privileges, intrade, education, writing, speech and conscience, andthey should be unhampered in their cultural and reli-gious development . These rights and privileges shouldbe accorded the Jews in every land . It appears to methat one of the beneficent effects of this war will be theelimination of prejudice against the Jews everywhere .I pray that as a result of the war mankind will morestrongly feel that all men are brothers .

"The movement to secure a proper status for theJews in Palestine is a worthy one, and our AmericanJewish citizens are entitled to credit for their efforts,which mean so much for the Jews all over the world .

"The declarations of our Allies in favor of Zionismwere very proper, and I hope that Congress or theexecutive branch of our government -will make a likedeclaration ."

(Signed) "EDWARD VoICT."

By Representative Frank W. Mundell,Of Wyoming .

Guars

Nations' "I favor the establishment of a national home fortee the Jewish people, and believe the nations of the earth

Jewish should guarantee the independence and territorial integ-Independence.rity of such a Jewish state. I realize, of course, that a

comparatively few of the Jewish people would ever beAppeals to permanent residents of Palestine. Nevertheless, theReligious

creation and maintenance of such a state appeals to theSentimentof Jew and sense of justice and religious and moral sentiment ofGentile.

Jew and Gentile alike."(Signed) "F. W. MONDELL."

FavorsRestorationunderProtecto-rate ofNations.

Eliminationof Preju-dice.

Credit toAmericanZionists .

For Declara-tion byUnitedStates. .

228

The american war_congress_and_zionism-reuben_fink-azoa-1919-224pgs-pol-rel

Education

jewish people

affairs of jewish palestine

american war congress

members of congress

jewish homeland

british declaration

jewish national enterprise

jewish national centre