Israel’s First Decade of Independence Celebrations

The borders were peaceful following the victory of the Sinai War, the economic situation began to stabilize, and the country gradually emerged from the austerity regime, largely due to reparations from Germany. New immigrants started moving to permanent residences, and the population tripled since 1948. The political landscape also enjoyed stability under the rule of Ben-Gurion, serving as both Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, and President Yitzhak Ben Zvi, who was popular all around.

No one imagined the tests that still awaited the country in the coming decades, and young Israel enjoyed a feeling of euphoria around which the celebrations of ten years of independence were held.

Celebrating Israel’s first decade of independence in 1958 was, and still is, a defining moment, marked by countless events across the country.It highlighted Israel’s transformation from a young nation into an established entity, a final confirmation of existence and prosperity, despite the challenges of the War of Independence and the Sinai War. These celebrations testified to Israel’s extraordinary achievements made in such a short time.

The ‘Decade Exhibition’-

The year’s main event was the ‘Decade Exhibition’ held at the International Convention Center in Jerusalem. The exhibition opened with President Yitzhak Ben Zvi’s words, ‘And Let There Be Light!’ as he pulled the lighting crane over the exhibition area. “The first national exhibition in Israel, celebrating our achievements in material and spirit. May this exhibition give us new strength to preserve and glorify our great achievement. I announce the opening of the exhibition. Let there be light!”

Amidst the numerous events and celebrations, a recreation of the Declaration of Independence ceremony was hosted at Beit Dizengoff on Rothschild Boulevard in Tel Aviv, the historic site where David Ben-Gurion proclaimed the state’s establishment in 1948. Additionally, the inaugural Bible quiz, now a cherished Israeli and global Jewish custom, was held. The government even formed a dedicated committee to coordinate the festivities globally. From New York to Mexico to Tokyo… Israel’s decade of independence was celebrated worldwide.