White Paper of 1939

Definition

The White Paper of 1939 was a British government policy document that outlined new restrictions on Jewish immigration to Palestine and proposed limiting Jewish land purchases. It was significant as it marked a shift in British policy towards the conflicting demands of Jewish and Arab populations in Palestine, aiming to find a compromise to quell tensions amid rising violence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The White Paper proposed that after five years, Palestine would become an independent state with a majority Arab population, which conflicted with Zionist aspirations for a Jewish state.
2. It resulted from increasing tensions and violence in Palestine, particularly between Jewish and Arab communities, following earlier waves of immigration.
3. The White Paper was widely rejected by the Zionist leadership, who saw it as a betrayal of the Balfour Declaration and their goal of establishing a Jewish homeland.
4. The British aimed to appease Arab opposition while managing rising Jewish expectations, highlighting their struggle to balance competing nationalisms in the region.
5. This policy change led to heightened tensions in the area, contributing to further conflict leading up to World War II and beyond.

Review Questions

• How did the White Paper of 1939 reflect the complexities of British governance in Palestine regarding Jewish and Arab populations?
  • The White Paper of 1939 illustrated the British government's attempt to navigate the conflicting national aspirations of Jews and Arabs in Palestine. By proposing restrictions on Jewish immigration and land purchases, it aimed to alleviate Arab concerns while still addressing some Zionist desires. However, this balancing act ultimately angered both sides, revealing the deep divisions and complexities that characterized British governance in the region during this tumultuous period.
• Evaluate the impact of the White Paper on Zionist movements and Arab nationalism in Palestine.
  • The White Paper had a profound impact on both Zionist movements and Arab nationalism. For Zionists, it was seen as a significant setback that contradicted earlier commitments like the Balfour Declaration, fueling resentment and increasing calls for resistance against British rule. On the other hand, Arab nationalists viewed the document as validation of their position against Jewish immigration and land acquisition, further galvanizing their efforts to assert control over Palestine. This polarization intensified hostilities between both communities.
• Assess how the White Paper of 1939 set the stage for future conflicts in Palestine after World War II.
  • The White Paper of 1939 laid critical groundwork for future conflicts by exacerbating tensions between Jewish and Arab communities. Its restrictive immigration policies frustrated Zionist aspirations at a time when Jews were desperately seeking refuge from European anti-Semitism. Meanwhile, Arab communities felt emboldened by perceived concessions from Britain. This discontentment fueled subsequent uprisings and resistance movements, ultimately leading to further violence and contributing to the complex legacy of conflict that emerged following World War II.

Related terms

Zionism:

A nationalist movement that emerged in the late 19th century advocating for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine.

Balfour Declaration:

A statement made by the British government in 1917 expressing support for the establishment of a 'national home for the Jewish people' in Palestine.

Arab Nationalism:

A political and cultural movement aiming to assert the identity and rights of Arab people, often in opposition to colonial rule and foreign influence.