Ben-Gurion's Historic Radio Address on First Election Day Revealed
Translated & summarized from Srugim by baba
A historic radio address by Israel's first Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion, broadcast two days before the nation's first elections on January 25, 1949, has been revealed. Titled "To the People and the Army," the address stressed the importance of voting as a "national honor duty" and warned against political division. The message, emphasizing the ballot box as the place to shape the nation's future, holds renewed significance ahead of the 2026 elections.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- David Ben-Gurion's historic "To the People and the Army" radio address from January 23, 1949, has been revealed.
- The address was broadcast two days before Israel's first national elections.
- Ben-Gurion called participation in elections a "national honor duty."
- He warned against political division and excessive rivalry.
- The message stressed the ballot box as the place to shape the nation's future.
- The address's significance is highlighted again ahead of the 2026 elections.
A week before Israel's first election day, the Ben-Gurion Heritage Institute and the Ben-Gurion Archives revealed a historic radio address by David Ben-Gurion, Israel's first prime minister and minister of defense. The address, titled "To the People and the Army," was broadcast on January 23, 1949, just two days before the landmark elections that established the foundations of Israeli democracy. The original document, accompanied by a rare photograph of Ben-Gurion casting his vote, preserves this pivotal moment.
In his address, Ben-Gurion stressed the profound significance of participating in the elections, calling it not merely a right but "a national honor duty." He warned against division and excessive political rivalry, urging the public to respect the voters' decision in the "day after." Ben-Gurion emphasized that the voting process would shape the nation's future in security, peace, economy, and society.
With the upcoming 2026 elections in mind, Ben-Gurion's words resonate with renewed importance. Facing contemporary national and social challenges, his message serves as a stark reminder that the ballot box is the appropriate venue to influence the shared future. His call underscores that voting is both a right and a responsibility for every citizen towards the state and future generations.
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