Monday, May 7, 2007

Creation of Israel

Zionism is a worldwide Jewish movement that resulted in the establishment and development of Israel . After the creation of Israel many conflicts began between the new country and its neighboring countries . Israel was surrounded by Arab countries such Jordan , Syria , and Lebanon . In 1948 the independent country was attacked by several countries which included Jordan , Syria , Lebanon , Iraq and Egypt . This war lasted almost a year before decisions were made to solve the problem . These decisions ended with the creation of an agreement known as the Rhodes Armistice . An Armistice is a compromise , but even with this is effect the countries still had their differences . The differences among the countries , mainly between Israel and Palestine was , the Arabs that made up Palestine felt that they should have been given the Jews were given . The Palestinians believe that their God gave them that land , but the Jews had the same belief . These beliefs are one of the main causes of conflict between these countries .

Wednesday, May 2, 2007

Nelson Mandela and Apartheid

Apartheid was racial segregation policy in South Africa`s government . When this system was in affect blacks (bantus) , colored , mixed and Indians didn`t have the same rights as the whites did . When apartheid became a major issue , several organizations were formed to stop it . These organizations included the African National Congress (ANC) and United Democratic Front (UDF) . One of the major members of the ANC was Nelson Mandela . Mandela was put in jail because of his actions against apartheid . Nelson Mandela had helped organize strikes against apartheid but was later sentenced to a life in prison . While in prison Mandela continued to help stop apartheid .

Mandela spent 26 years in prison , when he was released he continued his work . Mandela was able to weaken apartheid in 5 years because of his continuious strikes and riots . He was elected president of South Africa and was able to end apartheid . People in South Africa saw Mandela as a hero because now he ended apartheid and people could be treated as equals . Now the blacks could have just as much power as the whites .