One Land, Two Nations: A Political History of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

To understand the headlines of today, one must first navigate the layered history of the last century. This talk serves as a comprehensive primer on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, tracing its evolution from the rise of political Zionism in 1897 through the transformative events of October 7. Rather than viewing the struggle as an intractable religious feud, this presentation frames the conflict as a modern political struggle over land, sovereignty, and national identity.
We will examine the pivotal moments that shaped the current landscape—including the British Mandate, the 1948 and 1967 wars, and the Oslo Accords—to see how past decisions have narrowed or defined the paths available today. By exploring how two distinct nations came to claim the same territory, attendees will gain a clearer understanding of the historical drivers behind the current crisis and the complex hurdles standing in the way of a lasting solution.
About the Speaker:
Eric Boyer is a professor at Colby Sawyer College, since 2008. He earned a Ph.D from the University of Minnesota. He formerly served as a lecturer at the University of Minnesota and as an adjunct lecturer in the Department of Political Science at Saint Thomas University. Eric’s areas of expertise include American studies, government, history, and philosophy.
No Registration Required


