By 1895, Theodor Herzl is certain a major political step is needed to solve the situation of the Jews and in 1896 publishes The Jewish State.
The book will propel him to the forefront of the Zionist movement.
His success in meeting with high officials further solidifies his preeminence in the eyes of the Jewish public.
In 1897, Herzl convenes the first Zionist Congress. It becomes a kind of parliament-in-exile for the scattered communities of world Jewry.
Photo credit: Central Zionist Archives
