The Balfour Declaration

November 2, 1917

During the First World War, British policy became gradually committed to
the idea of establishing a Jewish home in Palestine (Eretz Yisrael). After
discussions in the British Cabinet, and consultation with Zionist leaders,
the decision was made known in the form of a letter by Arthur James Lord
Balfour to Lord Rothschild. The letter represents the first political
recognition of Zionist aims by a Great Power.

Foreign Office

November 2nd, 1917
Dear Lord Rothschild,
I have much pleasure in conveying to you, on behalf of His Majesty’s
Government, the following declaration of sympathy with Jewish Zionist
aspirations which has been submitted to, and approved by, the Cabinet.
“His Majesty’s Government view with favour the establishment in Palestine of
a national home for the Jewish people, and will use their best endeavours to
facilitate the achievement of this object, it being clearly understood that
nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of
existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights and political
status enjoyed by Jews in any other country.”
I should be grateful if you would bring this declaration to the knowledge of
the Zionist Federation.
Yours sincerely,

Arthur James Balfour