President George Bush addresses a special session of the Knesset marking the 60th anniversary of Israel’s independence.

Discussion Questions

1. What is the Knesset? Compare and contrast the function(s) and makeup of the Knesset with the U.S. Congress.
2. Explain how this clip illustrates the President’s role as Chief Diplomat. Why is President Bush visiting the Middle East? Which other U.S. Presidents have addressed the Knesset?
3. President Bush mentions the following names and events: Ariel Sharon, David Ben Gurion, Golden Mier, pogram, the Great War, and the Holocaust. Explain how each name and event ties into the history of Israel’s independence.
4. Israel and the U.S. are allies. What does this mean? Why does the U.S. consider its relationship with Israel so important? Which other countries are considered U.S. allies?
5. Why does President Bush make multiple Biblical references in his speech?