David Ben-Gurion and Golda Meir: from partnership to enmity. Issue 2 (3rd March 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Eldar, Eran
• Is Part Of: Israel affairs. Volume 26:Issue 2(2020)
• Page Start: 174
• Page End: 182
• Publication Date: 2020-03-03
• Subjects: David Ben-Gurion -- Golda Meir -- Lavon affair -- labour -- Mapai -- alignment -- Rafi -- Israel -- Yishuv; Israel -- History -- 1933- -- Periodicals; 956.94054
• DOI: 10.1080/13537121.2020.1720111
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1353-7121

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Relations between David Ben-Gurion and Golda Meir were complex and saw many ups and downs over the years. Having enjoyed fruitful collaboration prior to and after Israel's establishment, with Meir even appointed foreign minister at the height of her career, they were never close friends. The relationship took a steep downhill course in the early 1960s, culminating in Ben-Gurion's secession from the ruling Mapai party and the establishment of his own rival Rafi party. This article describes and analyzes the complex relationship and the rift between these two central leaders of Mapai and its impact on the party and on the political map.