(Settlement)
The Jewish community in Palestine in the period of the British mandate. It was an autonomous political body that gained valuable experience in political procedures and self-rule. Apolitical elite developed, civil servants gained experience, and political parties were established and developed procedures for working together. An educational system was also established. The Histadrut was founded and became a major political, economic, and social force. A self-defense capability (Hagana) was created and became the basis of the Israel Defense Forces. It provided the foundation for the governmental institutions and political processes of Israel after independence.
Historical Dictionary of Israel. Bernard Reich David H. Goldberg. Edited by Jon Woronoff..