The renowned author, Mark Twain, is probably best known for his books The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. While many know of his works, not many might be familiar with the fact that he had a lasting relationship with Israel, albeit one that was formed whilst he had never actually visited.
Twain’s connection with the Jewish homeland began in the late 1800s when he was an avid supporter of Zionism. His first pro-Israel essay, “The Siege of Jerusalem,” written in 1896, was a form of activism against the persecution of Jews. In it, Twain made light of Edom and other oppressors of the time and rallied against anti-Semitism.
Twain’s affinity to the Jews did not stop there. A few years later, he wrote a comedic travelogue titled “Innocents Abroad” which encapsulated his experiences while on a five-month-long voyage to Palestine. It included anecdotes, observations and criticisms of the many sites he visited. Throughout his stories, he exuded warmth and compassion towards the Jewish people, often demonstrating his admiration for their courage in the face of adversity.
Twain’s interest in the plight of the Jews didn’t stop with his writing. He was a major fundraiser and generous contributor to the Rothschild Jerusalem Fund. The Fund, established by Baron Edmond de Rothschild, was responsible for many initiatives such as building modern health, education and welfare facilities throughout the region. Despite this support, he never made the journey himself.
Twain’s Views on The Foundations of Zionism
Twain’s views on Zionism and Israel can be seen as far back as his book, The Innocents Abroad, and were often summarised in quotes found throughout his works. For example, he wrote: “If a man is a good enough citizen to fight and die for his country, he is good enough to vote; if he will accept the risk of death and destruction to save the nation, then by all means he is entitled to a voice in the government of the nation which he was willing to die for.” In this quote, he clearly demonstrated his support for the foundations of Zionism.
Twain also viewed Zionism in a spiritual context. He said, “Divests him of his home, his birthplace, his fatherland—what has he now? Nothing but a name. Let him emigrate to Jerusalem, the land of his forefathers, and build himself a throne, he will come to the throne with a larger background of biography, of experience, of character, than that which any mere inheritor of any throne can bring to it.” With this comment, Twain implies that the concept of Zionism is deeply rooted in spirituality and destiny.
Twain’s support did not wane over time. Even when the nation of Israel was founded in 1948, he spoke out in favour of it. He wrote in a letter to William Goldsmith, “Palestinians – people from the Holy Land – are at last enjoying the freedom and independence that I, for one, for so many years thought would never come their way.”
Twain’s Statistical Support of Israel
In addition to his passionate support for Zionist ideals, Twain provided extensive statistical evidence in support of Israel. He had a keen understanding of the area’s economics and demographics. His analysis of Jewish migration echoed similar sentiments from modern experts. In a review of The Jewish State in 1898, he wrote, “In the one hundred and twenty-nine years since the Jews began their modern revolutionary movement, they have increased their population in the United States by something over three hundredfold.” This comment highlights the vast changes that can come with nation building.
Twain continued to note other key statistics. “Since the rise of the Jewish State,” he wrote, “the number of Jews in every other country in the world has increased, … and in the United States has increased nearly twelvefold, that is to say, it has increased eleven hundred per cent.” This evidence demonstrates that nation building initiatives, such as Zionism, can have powerful effects on global populations.
Twain’s Influence on Israeli Politics
In addition to providing statistical evidence, Twain was very vocal about his support for Jewish autonomy in Palestine. He often criticized the British Mandate’s policies in the region in letters and articles. He even took his support all the way to the doorstep of the British parliament. In 1901, he attended a meeting at the House of Commons and voiced his support for the Balfour Declaration and his desires to see the Jews have a homeland in Israel.
Twain’s influence on the region was ongoing. In the decades that followed, he wrote volumes in support of Zionism. His writings inspired many to advocate and support the Jewish dream of a homeland. In fact, Golda Meir, Israel’s fourth Prime Minister once credited Mark Twain’s influence on Israel’s modernity when she said, “My generation was deeply influenced by Mark Twain’s passionate commitment to the Jewish people.”
Twain’s Lasting Legacy
Throughout his many years of activism, Twain had a lasting impact on the modern-day state of Israel. His famous pro-Israel stories and essays served as models of courage for oppressed Jews in their struggle for freedom. His analytical articles provided figures and evidence that supported the ideology of Zionism. Finally, his actions in parliament were instrumental in helping to shape the future of the nation. To this day, his influence on Israel’s history remains strong as a testament to his conviction and compassion.
Twain’s Relationship with Judaism
Twain’s relationship with Judaism was deep and complex. He was an avid reader of Jewish texts and was known to have engaged in Jewish literary conversations with friends. During this time of scholarly exploration, he developed a close friendship with Rabbi Joseph Krauskopf and often conversed with him on topics related to Zionism, the Bible and social justice.
Twain also found a deep connection with his Jewish faith through its literary works. He was particularly fond of the Jewish classic Kuzari. His enthusiasm for the text can be seen throughout his writings and even in the title of his poem “The Khedive’s Reward.” With his love of Jewish literature, it’s no wonder he was so deeply connected to the Jewish faith.
In fact, towards the end of his life, Mark Twain went on to value the customs and traditions of Judaism, so much so that he was buried in the Jewish cemetery of Woodlawn cemetery in New York. This move was significant in demonstrating the impact and influence of his life’s work among the Jewish people.
Celebrating the Contribution of Mark Twain
Today, Twain’s lasting connection with Israel is honoured and celebrated yearly. On the 15th of April, National Mark Twain Day is commemorated in Israel. It serves as an important reminder of the impact and influence the author had on the nation. Through his writings, activism and letters, Twain provided a voice to Jews in their struggle to gain freedom and autonomy. He also offered hope and support to a nation that had been oppressed and persecuted for centuries.
Though he never laid foot on the soil of Israel, his spirit and beliefs were brought to life and continue to live on today through the people of Israel – all thanks to the dedication and enthusiasm of Mark Twain.
Twain’s Role in Exploring the Middle East
Though he did not actually journey to Israel, Mark Twain had a unique insight into the Middle East having explored some of its neighboring countries in detail. In his travel book, Innocents Abroad, Twain described his journey throughout Egypt and through the Holy Land. He wrote of religious sites, the locals and of his excitement at the prospect of experiencing everything the Middle East had to offer.
Though the book was slightly controversial due to its light-heartedness, it was still admired for its descriptions of ancient sites and monuments that many were unfamiliar with. His knack for detail and vivid descriptions captured the attention of readers from around the world and made it one of the most popular books of its time.
Despite not having ventured to Israel, Twain’s tales of visits to nearby countries made the Jewish homeland even more mysterious and exciting. His stories inspired generations of people to explore and experience the unknown for themselves, furthering the legacy and curiosity surrounding the Middle East.
Twain’s Contribution Towards the Promotion of Zionism
Twain’s unwavering commitment to promoting Zionism is well documented. But, he was not alone. He benefited immensely from a network of like-minded professionals that he had joined, such as the Society of Hebrew Literature and the Jewish Historical Society. He was also a member of other non-Zionist organizations that promoted coexistence in the region and provided a platform to discuss topics related to Jewish culture and identity.
Through these organizations, Twain was able to raise awareness of the plight of the Jews in Palestine and to further stimulate public discussion on the Zionist cause. He was also able to connect with people on the ground and gain a better understanding of the political situation which further helped him to promote Zionism.
Twain’s networking also gave him access to influential figures throughout the region, many of whom he could call upon for advice or support. With these connections, Twain was able to create a formidable support base for Zionism, further cementing his place as an important figure in the movement.
Twain’s Lasting Impact
Mark Twain’s impact and influence on Zionism lives on today. His message of compassion and advocacy for the Jewish people as they sought a homeland of their own will be remembered through his powerful writings, activism and support towards Israel.
Today, his legacy is celebrated on the 15th of April through the National Mark Twain Day and is further remembered through his influence on political leaders such as Golda Meir. He is remembered as an avid promoter of Zionism and the granting of a homeland to the Jewish people whose legacy will be forever felt.
