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Zionism: General Zionism

General Zionism was initially the term used for the beliefs of all members of the Zionist Organization [ZO] who had not joined a specific faction or party ­ belonging to their countrywide Zionist organizations only. Over the years, the General Zionists, too, created ideological institutions and joined the Organization of General Zionists, established in 1922 as a centrist party in the ZO. The precepts of the General Zionists included Basle-style Zionism free of ideological embellishments and the primacy of Zionism over any class, party, or personal interest. This party, in its many metamorphoses, championed causes such as the encouragement of private initiative and protection of middle-class rights. In 1931, the General Zionists split into Factions A and B as a result of disagreements over issues of concern in Palestine: social affairs, economic matters, the attitude toward the General Federation of Jewish Labor (the Histadrut), etc. In 1945, the factions reunited.

Most of Israel's Liberal movements and parties were formed under the inspiration of the General Zionists and reflect mergers in and secessions from this movement.