Sport, Politics and Society in Israel: The First Fifty-five Years

Israeli sport, maybe more than any other cultural phenomenon, has changed radically since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. Over the past four decades, Israeli sport has evolved from an amateur hobby of a few 'sports freaks', to a passion of the masses. This transformation into a major cultural phenomenon is the result of general developments in Israeli & international society, as well as the enthusiastic efforts made by key individuals. This article examines a few of these key people, & reviews the major developments that turned Israeli sport into a central & legitimate part of Israeli society. Adapted from the source document.