On Israeli mission to northwest Africa
In 1954, Avraham (Avramale) Israeli was sent to North African countries to establish a small group of Zionist Jewish communities. His photos document movement's activists, families in Tunisia and Morocco before they immigrated to Israel
Avramale engaged in security-related problems, in bringing water to the community and in the purchase of agricultural lands – activities which led to him being crowned the head of the community.
After the State was established and thanks to his security-related activities, the immigration institution was interested in using Avramale's services. He was asked by the organization to leave for North Africa in order to establish a small group of Jewish communities which would help the Israeli communities at times of need.
It was the 1950s, when the northwest African countries were still controlled by France, but the local population sought independence. At a time like this, Jews were a convenient target.
In 1954, Avramale left for Casablanca, Morocco as the guide of Habonim movement in order to train the youth there for Zionist social activity.
In this article were present a selection of photos from Avramale's albums, documenting the movement's activity in Morocco and Tunisia, and the immigration of Jews to Israel.
2. Summer camp for the youth movement from Casablanca on the Atlas Mountains
3. Summer camp for the youth movement from Casablanca on the Atlas Mountains
4. Summer camp for the youth movement from Casablanca on the Atlas Mountains
5. The movement's dance group
6. Members of the movement's secretariat in Morocco – from Rabat and Casablanca - in the sixth convention. From the right: Albert, Miri, Shaul, Ninos, David Ben-Naim
8. Sailing on a ferry to the island of Djerba off the Tunisian coast
9. The entrance to the synagogue in the island of Djerba
10. Near the synagogue in the island of Djerba with the synagogue's caretaker (second on the left)
11. The great market in Djerba
12. At the entrance to the Djerba market
13. Rural Jews from Morocco's Atlas Mountains arrive in Casablanca ahead of their immigration to Israel
14. Loading the immigrants' suitcases at the Casablanca Port. The suitcase reads "Shimon Asulin"
17. Spending time playing music…
18. …and dancing
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