The First World Zionist Congress

Held in Basle, Switzerland, and convened by Theodor Herzl, the first Zionist Congress is held. It debates issues relating to the Zionist cause and lays out ideas for creating a homeland for the Jewish People in Palestine. This Congress, attended by more than 200 delegates from across continents, includes future important figures in Zionist history. The Basle Program adopts Ha’tikvah as the national anthem, posits a four point plan for a Jewish state, and elects Herzl as the president of the Zionist Organization. (source: Max Nordau speech from congress)