Golda Meir

Golda Meir-Y

1914 Golda in Milwaukee

Golda working in kibbutz Merhavia1

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Golda Meir Moscow 1948

Golda Meir (born Golda Mabovitch; May 3, 1898 – December 8, 1978) was an Israeli stateswoman, politician, teacher, and kibbutznik who served as the fourth Prime Minister of Israel. Meir was Israel's first and the world's third woman to hold such an office, and she has been described as the "Iron Lady" of Israeli politics, predating the term's association with British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. Born in Kiev in the Russian Empire (now Ukraine), she emigrated to the United States as a child with her family in 1906, before moving to Mandatory Palestine in 1921 with her husband, Morris Meyerson.

Early Life

Golda Meir was born on May 3, 1898, in Kiev, Russian Empire, and moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1906. Showing early signs of leadership, she organized the American Young Sisters Society at her school to raise money for her classmates' textbooks. Meir graduated as valedictorian of her class despite the challenges she faced as an immigrant.

Political Career

Meir's political career began in the Labor Zionist movement, where she held several key positions before Israel's independence. She was a signatory of the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel on May 14, 1948, and soon after served as the Israeli ambassador to the Soviet Union.

As a member of the Mapai party, she held various ministerial roles, including Minister of Labour and Foreign Minister under Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion. Meir was known for her straightforwardness and her commitment to the Israeli state and its people.

In 1969, following the death of Prime Minister Levi Eshkol, Meir came out of retirement to lead the country, becoming Prime Minister during a tumultuous time in Israeli history. Her tenure included the lead-up to and aftermath of the Yom Kippur War of 1973, a conflict that tested Israel's strength and resilience.

Legacy

Golda Meir's legacy is marked by her tireless dedication to the State of Israel and her role as a pioneer for women in global politics. Despite controversies over her handling of the Yom Kippur War, Meir is remembered for her leadership qualities, her iron will, and her contributions to the establishment and security of the State of Israel.

Death

Golda Meir passed away on December 8, 1978, from lymphoma. Her passing was mourned by many across the world, and she is remembered as one of the most influential figures in Israeli history.