'The Hundred Years' War on Palestine' is not merely a historical account; it’s a deeply personal narrative woven through generations. Starting in 1899, with Yusuf Diya al-Khalidi’s poignant letter to Theodore Herzl, this book sets the stage for a century filled with struggles, hopes, and complexities faced by Palestinians. Khalidi, the great-great-nephew of al-Khalidi, immerses readers in both pivotal events and intimate family stories, creating a tapestry of resilience against colonial forces.
Rather than presenting the conflict as just a tragic clash, Khalidi offers an insightful reevaluation of a century dominated by colonialism. He draws on a treasure trove of archival materials and family reports from mayors, judges, and journalists, revealing the profound impact of the Zionist movement and its backing by Western powers, particularly Britain and the United States.
From the 1917 Balfour Declaration to the catastrophic events of 1948, and Israel's military actions in Lebanon in 1982, Khalidi highlights crucial moments that shaped Palestinian history. Each chapter is steeped in historical analysis, aiming to bring clarity to the ongoing plight faced by Palestinians, challenging readers to reflect on issues of justice and sovereignty.
This book goes beyond mere victimization; it acknowledges Palestinian agency and the complexity of their leaders’ decisions throughout history. "The Hundred Years' War on Palestine" isn't just an academic treatise but a heartfelt exploration of identity, historical memory, and the quest for justice that resonates widely in current discourses around the region.
As you delve into this work, expect not only to learn about the history of Palestine but to feel the emotions tied to its struggles. Khalidi invites you to reconsider widely accepted narratives, offering an essential perspective that challenges established views. This is not just a historical recount—it's a call to understand the human experience entangled in these complex historical threads.
