David Ben-Guiron was definitely one of the most influential leaders of the 20th Century. He was the first Prime Minister of Israel, his tradition looms large in that country. He was a critical figure in bringing about the establishment of the state of Israel. He was an efficient leader who was tough as nails. Ben-Gurion had to be if he expected Israel to survive in the Middle East surrounded by hostile states. He came to Palestine in 1906 as part of the first wave of Jews who were active Zionist, socialist, egalitarian, and very nationalistic. During the First World War he cooperated with the British but turned on colonial adminstration after the 2nd World War. He was confrontative with the Arabs because he had to be from a defensive standpoint, but he also believed that ultimately constant warfare with their neighbors and the Palestinians would only hurt the prospect of a Jewish state. He believed in giving the Arabs equal rights to those who would accept it. More than any other person, Ben-Guiron is responsible for the modern state of Israel.
