Golda Meir

Golda Meir was Israel’s first and only female prime minister. She led Israel from 1969 to 1974 and was known for her strong personality, direct style, and deep commitment to the Zionist movement. She had been active in Jewish politics since before statehood and was one of the signers of Israel’s Declaration of Independence.

Her premiership is most remembered for the Yom Kippur War of 1973, when Egypt and Syria attacked Israel by surprise. Although Israel eventually recovered militarily, the shock of the war damaged public trust in the government. Golda resigned afterward, making her legacy a mix of strength, dedication, and controversy over preparedness.