Detailed historical reconstruction of the origins of Jewish political thought. By tracing the development of Socialist Zionism and Revisionism in the years prior to Israel's independence, the book demonstrates how the political, social and economic foundations of the future state of Israel were negotiated in this period and how these ideologies have endured and are reflected in present-day Israeli diplomacy. In this respect, the comprehensive analysis is key to an understanding of the basis of Israeli international relations and the fragmentary nature of its politics. The book promises to become a standard reference for students of Zionist and Israeli politics, as well as those interested in the contemporary Middle East generally.