David Ben-Gurion

ModernPoliticianIsrael1886 — 1973

Primary founder of the State of Israel and its first prime minister.

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Quick Facts

Born

1886

Died

1973

Country

Israel

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)10

Political (20%)78

Influence (20%)68

Legacy (20%)70

Leadership (15%)80

Strategy (15%)60

Total Score65.2

David Ben-Gurion — Complete Timeline

1948 AD

Declaration of the Establishment of the State of IsraelPolitical Action

Ben-Gurion read the Declaration of Independence in Tel Aviv, proclaiming the establishment of the State of Israel. He became its first prime minister, leading the provisional government during the ensuing 1948 Arab-Israeli War.

Founding of IsraelIndependenceZionism

Impact: globalconstructive

1956 AD

Operation Kadesh (Suez Crisis)War◆ Major

As prime minister, Ben-Gurion authorized Israel's invasion of Egypt's Sinai Peninsula in coordination with Britain and France. The operation aimed to regain control of the Suez Canal and end Egyptian blockade of Eilat, but international pressure forced withdrawal.

Suez CrisisSinai CampaignMilitary Action

Impact: regional

1963 AD

Resignation as Prime MinisterPolitical Action◆ Major

Ben-Gurion resigned as prime minister citing personal reasons and disagreements with his Mapai party colleagues, particularly over the Lavon Affair. He was succeeded by Levi Eshkol, ending his direct leadership of Israel.

ResignationPolitical TransitionLavon Affair

Impact: national