Arab Attacks on Hebron's Jewish Community

August 23rd, 1929

August 23rd, 1929

Arab Attacks on Hebron's Jewish Community
How Long Ago?

95 years, 6 months, 20 days ago

Location

Hebron, Palestine

Category

Crime & Law

Links & References
Tags

Arab Attacks on Hebron's Jewish Community

In August 1929, a series of violent anti-Jewish riots erupted in Hebron, during which Arab residents attacked the Jewish community. Over two days, approximately 65 to 68 Jewish individuals were killed, and the violence led to the remainder of the Jewish population being evacuated from the city. This violence was part of a larger wave of riots across Palestine, rooted in tensions over religious sites and national identities.

Between 65 and 68 Jews were killed.

Local Jewish community evacuated after riots.

Part of wider 1929 Palestine riots.

Tensions rooted in religious and national disputes.

What Happened?

The Hebron Massacre was a significant episode within the broader context of the 1929 Palestine riots, a series of violent disturbances primarily fueled by Arab-Jewish tensions in British Mandate Palestine. These tensions escalated due to a combination of political dissatisfaction, economic competition, and disputes over holy sites, particularly the Western Wall in Jerusalem. On August 23, in Hebron, a town with a long-standing Jewish presence, Arab residents initiated attacks on their Jewish neighbors, leading to violent confrontations.

As the violence unfolded, crowds formed, carrying out organized assaults against the Jewish population. The rioting continued into the following day, resulting in an extensive loss of life. Estimates indicate that between 65 and 68 Jews were killed during the riots. Survivors reported horrifying instances of brutality, and the local Jewish community faced fear for their lives. The attacks not only claimed lives but also destroyed property, leaving the Jewish residents of Hebron in a state of despair.

By the end of the riots, the Jewish community in Hebron was compelled to evacuate, marking a significant demographic change in the city. This event adhered to a pattern of escalating violence and highlighted the fragile coexistence of Jews and Arabs in the region, laying foundations for future conflicts. The massacres exposed vulnerabilities within the community and heightened fears among Jews for their safety in Palestine, prompting discussions about security and immigration.

Why Does it Matter?

The Hebron Massacre is significant as it marked a critical point in the Arab-Jewish conflict, showcasing the deepening divisions within Palestinian society. This event catalyzed changes in Jewish immigration patterns and attitudes towards community safety, ultimately influencing the political landscape of the region as various groups rallied for control and governance. The violence contributed to the longer narrative of conflict leading to the eventual establishment of the State of Israel and ongoing tensions in the location.

Discover More Historic Events from August 23rd

Space Exploration

Chandrayaan-3 Achieves India's First Moon Landing

August 23rd, 2023 1 years ago

The Chandrayaan-3 mission successfully landed on the Moon, marking a significant milestone for India's space exploration efforts. Developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the lander named Vikram touched down near the lunar south pole region. This historic soft landing was aimed at enhancing the scientific understanding of the Moon's surface and its resources. The mission reflects India's growing capabilities in space technology and aims to contribute to global lunar exploration initiatives.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Wagner Group Leaders Die in Jet Crash

August 23rd, 2023 1 years ago

A business jet carrying key leadership members of the Wagner Group crashed, resulting in the deaths of all ten people on board. The aircraft went down in the Tver region of Russia under unexplained circumstances. Among the deceased was Yevgeny Prigozhin, the infamous leader of the private military company, known for his significant involvement in various conflicts, including operations in Ukraine and Africa. The crash raised immediate questions about the future of the Wagner Group and its activities.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Violence Erupts at Palmasola Prison in Bolivia

August 23rd, 2013 11 years ago

A riot at the Palmasola prison complex in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, resulted in the deaths of 31 inmates. The violence erupted over overcrowding and inhumane living conditions within the facility. As tensions escalated, armed clashes broke out among rival gangs, leading to a chaotic scene that prompted intervention from security forces. The situation highlighted significant issues within Bolivia's penal system and garnered international attention regarding prisoner rights and the treatment of inmates in overcrowded facilities.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Hot-air balloon crash in Ljubljana

August 23rd, 2012 12 years ago

A hot-air balloon carrying a large group faced a tragic event when it crashed near Ljubljana, Slovenia, killing six individuals and injuring 28 others. The balloon was operating during an annual festival, which attracted many spectators. The incident occurred in the early evening, causing panic among attendees. Rescue operations were launched immediately, aiming to provide assistance to the injured and investigate the cause of the accident.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Virginia Earthquake Damages D.C. Monuments

August 23rd, 2011 13 years ago

A magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck in Virginia, sending shockwaves across the eastern United States. The epicenter was located near the town of Mineral, Virginia. The tremors were felt as far away as New York City and Chicago, with significant damage reported in Washington, D.C. Notably, several monuments and historical structures suffered varying degrees of damage, with repair costs estimated between 200 million and 300 million USD, highlighting the earthquake's reach and impact on urban infrastructure.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Gaddafi's Regime Falls in Libya

August 23rd, 2011 13 years ago

Muammar Gaddafi's regime falls as National Transitional Council forces seize Bab al-Azizia compound in Libya. This crucial event marks a turning point in the Libyan Civil War, leading to the downfall of Gaddafi's long-standing rule. The loss of the compound, previously regarded as Gaddafi's stronghold, signifies the deterioration of his control over the country. The fighting culminates in the capture of Tripoli, igniting celebrations among Libyan citizens who desire freedom from authoritarian governance.

Continue Reading