THEODORE
HERZL. Typed Letter Signed "Herzl",
Vienna, 27 January 1902. In German, with translation. 1 page, 11"
x 8½".
The founder of the organized Zionist movement, Theodore Herzl advocated
an independent Jewish state in his Der Judenstaat (1896) and
served as head of the World Zionist Organization from its beginning
in 1897 until his death in 1904. This letter shows Herzl in his role
of organizer for the movement, following up on actions recommended by
a recent Zionist Congress.
"In accordance with the resolution adopted at the 5th Congress
on December 30, 1901," Herzl writes, "the gentlemen
listed on the enclosed paper [not present] were elected to the permanent
Cultural Affairs Commission for the individual countries. We now take
the liberty of kindly requesting that you send us at your earliest convenience
the...make-up of your committee."
At the Congress, Herzl continues, "a new rule was established
stating that only brothers-in-spirit who reside in the same city shall
be nominated as members of commissions, since we have learned the hard
lesson that commissions, with their members spread in various countries,
accomplished nothing whatsoever. We confidently entertain the hope that
without waiting for our initiative, you have already started your work
and would like to ask you to keep us posted."
He closes "with Zion's greetings," and signs, "Herzl,"
as chairman of the Action Committee.
The letter is in fine condition. $2250.00
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