Baron rothschild and the initial stage of jewish settlement in Palestine (1882-1890): A different type of colonization?

The paper provides an overview of the first decade of the Jewish modern resettlement in Palestine, stressing Baron de Rothschild's part as the most prominent factor to shape the pioneer endeavour. An analysis of the Baron's commissioners reveals involvement in a variety of activities in the twelve agricultural settlements that were established then. This involvement began with planning and construction, and ended with agricultural guidance and supervision. Community services, especially education and health, are identified as the area in which Rothschild and his employees influenced the Jewish East European new settlers. The study then locates the specific Palestinian case and the Rothschild venture within the wide framework of European colonization in the nineteenth century. But is also identifies divergences in essential aspects such as the destination of the immigration, the character of the capital provided to the new settlement, and the relationship of the colonists with the local population and the authorities. Different ideological motives and spatial expressions distinguished the Jewish settlement in Palestine from other colonization.