The Jewish Youth Movements in Poland on the Eve of World War II

The Jewish youth movements played a significant role in the period between the two world wars, both in their contribution to the fulfilment of Zionism and in their leadership of the Jewish resistance to Nazism. The youth movements that were established in Poland at the end of and following World War I were substantially influenced by the youth movement model in Germany and in Austria, but were inspired primarily by Polish and Eastern European Jewry.

This exhibit depicts the life of the youth in the movements as well as their diverse activities, which included sports, camping, cultural production, joint learning, seminars, the development of ethical positions, and a vibrant social life. The visitors enter a movement chapter in which movement flags are displayed, as well as books, musical instruments, sports equipment, posters, placards, and various other objects reflecting the activities of the youth.

The exhibit also reflects the collective activities, the training programs, and the summer and winter camps. It is accompanied by a film depicting the growth of the youth movements and the process of training conducted in preparation for immigration and ideological fulfillment in the Land of Israel.

The exhibit relates to a variety of youth movements: Hashomer Hatzair, Freiheit-Hechalutz (Dror), Gordonia, Hanoar Hatzioni, Akiva, Beitar, Hashomer Hadati, and Tsukunft.