Haganah

Haganah
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Formation	1920
Type	Paramilitary organization
Headquarters	Tel Aviv, Mandatory Palestine
Membership	N/A
Language	Hebrew
Leader title	N/A
Leader name	N/A
Website	N/A

The Haganah (Hebrew: ההגנה, "The Defense") was a Jewish paramilitary organization in the British Mandate of Palestine from 1920 to 1948. It was the main defense force of the Jewish community in Palestine and played a crucial role in the establishment of the State of Israel.

History

The Haganah was formed in response to the 1920 Nebi Musa riots and the 1921 Jaffa riots, which highlighted the need for a unified Jewish defense force. Initially, it was a loose organization of local defense groups, but it gradually evolved into a more structured and centralized organization.

Early Years (1920-1936)

In its early years, the Haganah was primarily concerned with defending Jewish settlements from Arab attacks. It operated clandestinely, as the British authorities did not officially recognize it. During this period, the Haganah focused on training its members and acquiring arms, often smuggled into the country.

The Arab Revolt (1936-1939)

The Arab Revolt of 1936-1939 was a turning point for the Haganah. The British authorities, overwhelmed by the revolt, began to cooperate with the Haganah, allowing it to expand and improve its capabilities. The Haganah established the "Field Companies" (Plugot Sadeh) and the "Special Night Squads" under the command of Orde Wingate, a British officer who supported the Zionist cause.

World War II and the Jewish Brigade

During World War II, the Haganah cooperated with the British against the Axis powers. Many Haganah members joined the Jewish Brigade of the British Army, gaining valuable military experience. This period also saw the formation of the "Palmach", the elite strike force of the Haganah.

Post-War Period and the Struggle for Independence

After World War II, the Haganah focused on facilitating Jewish immigration to Palestine, in defiance of British restrictions. This was part of the "Aliyah Bet" operation. The Haganah also prepared for the impending conflict with the Arab states, which was anticipated following the end of the British Mandate.

The 1947-1948 Civil War in Mandatory Palestine

Following the United Nations Partition Plan for Palestine in 1947, violence erupted between Jewish and Arab communities. The Haganah played a central role in defending Jewish areas and securing territory for the future state. It launched "Plan Dalet" to secure Jewish settlements and establish control over key areas.

Transition to the Israel Defense Forces

On May 26, 1948, shortly after the declaration of the State of Israel, the Haganah was officially transformed into the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the national army of Israel. This marked the end of the Haganah as a separate entity.

Organization and Structure

The Haganah was organized into several branches, including the "Palmach" (elite strike force), the "Irgun" (a more militant offshoot), and the "Lehi" (also known as the Stern Gang). It had a hierarchical structure with a central command, regional commands, and local units.

Legacy

The Haganah is remembered as a key force in the establishment of the State of Israel. Its members went on to become leaders in the IDF and the Israeli government. The Haganah's legacy is celebrated in Israel, and its history is taught as part of the national narrative.

Also see

• Israel Defense Forces
• Palmach
• Irgun
• Lehi (group)
• Jewish Brigade
• Aliyah Bet
• Plan Dalet