Hadassah Research (1912-1948)

The main focus of this dissertation is the Women’s Zionist Organization of America——Hadassah, which was founded in1912. This paper is divided into three chapters.The first chapter gives the historical background of the establishment of Hdassah. Zionism, which prevailed in the late19th century, built the ideological foundation for Hadassah. Progressive movement and the Settlement movement happened at the same time in America provided favorable social circumstances for America women to attend Hadassah. Jewish tradition of charity internally motivated Hadassah engaging in charitable activities in the future.The second chapter is the main section of this thesis, and it discusses the emergence and main activities of Hadassah. In the early of20th century, medical and hygienic condition in Palestinian were extremely appalling. After visiting Palestine, Henrietta Szold decided to found Hadassah. After the establishment of Hadassah, the medical level of Palestine had greatly improved as nurses had been sent, the American Zionist Medical Unit had been organized, the Hadassah Nurses’ Training School had been created and other activities had been held. Moreover, by offering school hygiene services, setting up milk station and health welfare station, launching the School Luncheon Movement and building children playgrounds, Palestinian Jewish children’s health condition had been effectively protected. In addition, Hadassah also actively participated in Youth Aliyah, and rescued Europe Jewish children.The third chapter briefly analyzes the differences between Hadassah and other Jewish organizations in United States. From aspects of activities, Hadassah engaged in social welfare work, while Zionist Organization of America involved in political and diplomatic activities. From the aspects of members, Hadassah was not limited to the social composition of its members; however, the members of Pioneer Women, the Mizrachi Women’s Organization of America and National Council of Jewish Women are from certain social groups.To conclude, Hadassah enriches the zionist’s activities, its welfare activities laid the foundation of the social welfare state of Israel.