How Old Was Golda Meir During the Yom Kippur War?
Background
Golda Meir, the fourth Prime Minister of Israel, was one of the most prominent figures in Israeli politics during the early years of the country. She played a significant role in shaping Israel’s relations with the United States, the Soviet Union, and the Arab world. However, her leadership was tested during the Yom Kippur War, which erupted on October 6, 1973.
A Brief Overview of Golda Meir’s Life
Born on May 3, 1898, in Kiev, Russia, Golda Meir migrated to the United States in 1906 and eventually settled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She became involved in left-wing politics and joined the Poale Zion organization, which aimed to unite Jewish workers. Meir later moved to Israel and joined the Hashomer Hatzair group, where she met her future husband, Morris Meyerson.
Meir rose through the ranks of Israeli politics, serving as Minister of Labour, Foreign Affairs, and Immigrant Absorption in the 1950s and 1960s. She became Israel’s First Female Ambassador, serving in Moscow from 1948 to 1949. In 1963, Meir returned to Israel and became the Leader of the Opposition. Finally, in 1969, she became the Prime Minister of Israel.
The Yom Kippur War: A Turning Point
On October 6, 1973, during the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur, Arab forces launched a surprise attack on Israel. The attack caught the Israeli military unprepared, and Syria and Egypt made significant gains on the western and eastern fronts.
At the time of the Yom Kippur War, Golda Meir was 75 years old. Despite her age, she played a pivotal role in leading the Israeli government through the crisis.
Challenges and Triumphs
During the Yom Kippur War, Meir faced intense pressure to lead Israel out of the crisis. Her government was criticized for the military’s lack of preparation and the delay in launching a counterattack.
Some of the major decisions Meir made during the war include:
- Authorizing a large-scale mobilization of Israeli reserves to boost military strength
- Pursuing diplomatic efforts, including talks with the Soviet Union and the United States, to secure support
- Making key appointments, such as Gadash ben-Gal as the Commander-in-Chief of the Northern Front
Impact and Legacy
The Yom Kippur War lasted for three weeks, concluding on October 25, 1973. Israeli forces ultimately managed to regroup and push the Arabs back, but at significant human and financial cost.
Meir’s leadership during the Yom Kippur War proved to be a tipping point in her career. Although the war was a tarnish on her legacy, she continued to serve as Prime Minister until June 1974, when she resigned due to declining public support.
Legacy Today
Golda Meir’s legacy is a mix of triumphs and tribulations. Her commitment to Israel’s security and international relations is widely acknowledged, but her leadership during the Yom Kippur War remains a topic of debate.
In Recent Years
In 2020, Shirley Avivi, Meir’s great-niece, published a biography entitled "Golda’s First Year" which provided insights into Meir’s experiences during the Yom Kippur War.
Today, Golda Meir is remembered as a champion of Israeli independence and security. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of Israelis, and her name remains synonymous with strength, resilience, and determination.
Table: Significant Events in Golda Meir’s Life
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Born | May 3, 1898 |
| Moved to the US | 1906 |
| Joined Poale Zion | 1922 |
| Became Ambassador | 1948-1949 |
| Became Prime Minister | 1969-1974 |
| Started Yom Kippur War | October 6, 1973 |
Conclusion
Golda Meir was 75 years old when Israel was caught off guard by the Yom Kippur War. Despite her advanced age, she proved herself to be a catalyst for action in the face of crisis, making key decisions to defend Israel’s interests.
The Yom Kippur War marked a defining moment in Golda Meir’s legacy, showcasing her determination to protect Israel and her resolve to lead the country through its darkest hour.
Throughout her life, Meir remained a symbol of courage, wisdom, and vision, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire Israelis and world leaders alike.
