David Ben-Gurion

Ben-Gurion returned to power in 1955 and continued shaping Israel’s early decades. His second period included major events like the 1956 Sinai Campaign, when Israel, Britain, and France fought Egypt after growing regional tensions and the nationalization of the Suez Canal. He also promoted development towns, immigration absorption, and national defense.

During this period, Ben-Gurion continued to dominate Israeli politics but also faced growing criticism and party conflicts. His long influence helped define Israel’s military, political, and social culture for decades.