Video summary
Using guest speakers, this video clip discusses the origins of the two-state solution in the Arab-Israeli conflict, through the British Peel Commission of 1937 and the White Paper of 1939.
This clip is part of a series which can be treated as historical sources, looking at different viewpoints of the Arab-Israeli conflict. It is one of a series of clips taken from a longer documentary about the Israel/Palestine conflict, from 2004.
The series follows the history of the conflict through the mid-late 20th century, focussing on major incidents, pressure points and conflicts.
Please note, these clips have been edited from the original 2004 broadcast version to remove some scenes young audiences might find disturbing. However, teacher review is advised.
Teacher Notes
After watching the clip, split the class into groups and have them talk about what they saw.
Do the speakers think the deals on offer were fair?
If not, which side does each speaker think the deal supports? What do they say to make you think that?
Summarise the speakers' perspective. Can you think of anything that might influence them?
Do you think the deals are presented as a positive or negative idea?
Is there any more information you would like to know before making a decision?
This video clip will be relevant for teaching history at KS3, KS4/GCSE, in England and Wales and Northern Ireland. Also at Third Level, Fourth Level, National 4 and National 5 in Scotland.
This topic appears in AQA and Edexcel.
UN partition plan for Palestine and establishing the State of Israel. video
Using guest speakers, this video clip discusses the background and impact of the UN Partition Plan for Palestine in 1947.
Suez and the arrival of the Cold War in the Middle East. video
Using guest speakers, this video clip examines how the Suez Crisis of 1956 changed international relationships and the landscape of power in the Middle East.
The Six-Day War and the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) video
Using guest speakers, this video clip discusses how Israel defeated Jordan, Syria and Egypt in only six days in 1967. It also discusses how the war inspired Palestinian resistance movements, such as the PLO under Yasser Arafat.
The Yom Kippur War. video
Using guest speakers, this video clip examines the events surrounding the Yom Kippur War in 1973.
Sabra and Shatila massacres in 1982. video
Using guest speakers, this video clip examines the events surrounding the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982.
The first Intifada and Palestinian consciousness. video
Using guest speakers, this video clip discusses the first Palestinian mass uprising in 1987, and how it became a turning point in the conflict.
