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Two Peoples, One Land

Common roots The revolts The endless wars The peace process What now? Photo gallery Learn more Two Peoples, One Land Home delivery Contact us Search archives
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AMIT SHABI / REUTERS
The land Abraham is said to have been given by God sits at a busy continental crossroads that has been claimed, conquered and carved up by armies since recorded time. Today, the Israelis and Palestinians — whose dominant religious roots both trace to Abraham — continue a long and bitter fight for control of the area.
     Both groups rely on force, aid from stronger nations and persuasive arguments that tell why each has a rightful claim to the land, and why the other does not.
     These arguments encompass a range of thorny issues: religion, history, politics and national identity. Here's a look at those issues, and how the children of Abraham came to be locked in this era's most intractable conflict. More Right arrow
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Discussion guide | Reader comments | Photo gallery
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 1800 B.C.E. (Before Common Era) 1960 2002 
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timeline
COMMON ROOTS
Both Jews and Muslims trace their history to Abraham; both claim revered religious sites in the Holy Land.
THE REVOLTS
The 19th century saw the rise of nationalism for both Jews and the Arabs of Palestine.
THE ENDLESS WARS
Israel declared statehood in 1948. What followed has been a series of wars and United Nations resolutions.
BARRIERS TO PEACE
Egypt made peace with Israel in 1978, and the Oslo Agreement in 1993 initiated sporadic peace talks.
WHAT NOW?
Who are the protagonists, Yasser Arafat and Ariel Sharon? What are the prospects for a Palestinian state?
timeline

Photo gallery
The Israeli- Palestinian story in photos.
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Questions and activities to help teachers and parents better explore this site, and guide student discussions about the conflict in the Middle East.
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A place for your thoughts about this special section.

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