DAVID BEN-GURION
He signs a 1951 letter to author Kurt Nabretsky, thanking him for a copy of a book "even though I have had your book in my library for many years."
TLS: "D. Ben-Gurion" in Hebrew as Prime Minister of Israel, 1 page, 6½x8. No place, 1951 October 16. On embossed letterhead to Dr. Kurt Nabretsky. In Hebrew, translated. In full: "Many thanks for your book - the first book on the Jewish homeland settlement - your writing and blessing. Even though I have had your book in my library for many years, I am delighted and thankful for your gift. Respectfully yours". David Ben-Gurion (1886-1973), who became known as "The Father of Israel", became captivated with Zionism during his youth in Poland. Born David Gruen, he adopted the ancient Hebrew name Ben-Gurion in 1906 at age 20, when he immigrated to Palestine. Ben-Gurion, who proclaimed Israel's independence on May 14, 1948, was its first leader as Chairman of the Provisional State Council (May 14-May 17, 1948). On May 17, he became Israel's first Prime Minister (1948-1953) and Chaim Weizmann became President. Ben-Gurion devoted his life to establishing a Jewish nation, and encouraged the return of Jewish people from throughout the world. After serving again as Prime Minister from 1955-1963, Ben-Gurion devoted himself to writing. He published Israel: The Years of Challenge (1963) and The Jews in Their Land (1966). Lightly creased with folds, vertical fold at the flourish of signature. Lightly soiled, rusty paperclip stain at lower left blank margin. Overall, fine condition.