Zionism is a Jewish nationalist movement that originated in eastern and central Europe in the latter part of the 19th century. Its goal is the creation and support of a Jewish national state in Palestine, the ancient homeland of the Jews. The movement was founded in response to rising antisemitism in Europe, exemplified by the Dreyfus affair in France and the anti-Jewish pogroms in the Russian Empire. The term "Zionism" was coined in 1890 by Nathan Birnbaum. Key points about Zionism include:

• Goal: The creation and support of a Jewish national state in Palestine.

• History: Zionism originated in eastern and central Europe in the latter part of the 19th century as a response to rising antisemitism in Europe.

• Jewish connection to Israel: The yearning to return to Zion, the biblical term for both the land of Israel and Jerusalem, has been a cornerstone of Jewish communal life since the Romans violently colonized the land, sending Jews into exile two thousand years ago.

• Diversity of views: There are diverse views among Zionists about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, about how to promote peace, whether to support a two-state solution, and about approaches to Israeli settlements.

• Zionism vs. Judaism: Being a Zionist is distinct from supporting the policies of the government of Israel. Not all Jews identify as Zionists, and not all Zionists are Jewish.

• Zionist movements: Disagreements in philosophy led to rifts in the Zionist movement over the years, and a number of separate forms emerged, including Political Zionism, Religious Zionism, Socialist Zionism, and Territorial Zionism.

It is important to note that the topic of Zionism is complex and multifaceted, and opinions on it can vary widely.