Second Zionist Congress

During a Debate

Herzl outside his hotel in Basel

Isaak Rühl

Zionist Shekel

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Second Congress - Basle, 1898

In the face of a more active opposition to Zionism from amongst various Jewish leaders, Herzl called on the Congress to "conquer the communities." In essence, this was a demand that the Zionist movement focus its attention not only on political activity for Palestine but also on work within the Jewish communities.

At this Congress, the foundations were laid for the establishment of the Jewish Colonial Trust, a financial body aimed at the development of Palestine. It was also at this Congress that a group of Socialists first appeared demanding representation within the Zionist leadership.