Our History
Hebrew acronym for the Brit Yosef Trumpeldor youth movement founded in Poland in 1923 and an offshoot of the world Revisionist movement led by Vladimir Jabotinsky, which had a stated goal of establishing a Jewish state across all of Palestine and Jordan. Jabotinsky was elected leader of Betar in 1931. With 70,000 members by 1934, Betar became one of the largest and most influential youth movements in Poland and across Europe, as well as Palestine, and it provided a strong base of support to the Revisionist movement. Its vision was for a Jewish state in Palestine and it was characterized by militarism, authoritarianism, support for the European Right, and anti-socialism. Betar thus became an incubator for the development of right-wing Zionist ideas and its supporters were sometimes referred to as “Jewish Fascists.” In Palestine, Betar members facilitated illegal Jewish immigration and were active instigators of disturbances and violence, frequently bombing Arab civilian areas in response to attacks and waging guerilla warfare against the British. Betar eventually joined with Irgun, sharing leadership and cadres. Menahem Begin, who went on to become Israeli prime minister, led the two movements during the 1940s, including a revolt against the British in 1944 and fighting against the Palestinians in 1947–8. See also al-Buraq Uprising, Irgun, Lehi.
Building a Strong, Proud Jewish Future
Betar”s work goes beyond action—it”s about inspiration. Our unapologetic, aggressive stance against antisemitism embodies Jabotinsky”s vision of Betarim as “proud, strong, and fierce.” Each rally, cleanup, or response inspires others to stand up, speak out, and embrace their identity with confidence and pride.
By addressing the gaps left by local authorities and passive organizations, Betar shines a bright, unyielding light on antisemitism and empowers the Jewish community to take back the narrative. We are not just a movement—we are a force for action, resilience, and change. Together, through our chapters and initiatives, we are shaping a united and empowered Jewish future.
Timeline
Leadership Team
The leadership and board of directors of Betar US, the Betar Zionist Movement are lifelong supporters of Betar.
The founder of Betar was Ze’ev Jabotinsky. Two Betar members, Menachem Begin and Yitzhak Shamir have served as Israel’s Prime Ministers while Benzion Netanyahu who served as Jabotinsky’s longterm chief of staff is the father of “Israel’s” longest serving prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.
Many of the leaders of the State of Israel, including multiple current Cabinet members, Knesset members, diplomats and ambassadors grew up in the Betar movement and consider themselves Jabotinsky followers.
Foundation of Betar
Betar, an acronym for Brit Yosef Trumpeldor, was established in Riga, Latvia by Ze’ev Jabotinsky as part of the Revisionist Zionist movement. Its mission was bold: to create a Jewish state encompassing all of Palestine and Jordan.
Rapid Growth
By the 1930s, Betar had become one of the largest and most influential Jewish youth movements in Europe, with 70,000 members by 1934. The movement played a critical role in shaping the ideological foundation of right-wing Zionism.
Resistance and Independence
During the 1940s, Betar merged with the Irgun, a Jewish paramilitary group, under the leadership of Menachem Begin. Together, they waged a revolt against the British Mandate and played a significant role in the fight for Israeli independence during the 1947–1948 period.
State of Israel Established
With the establishment of the State of Israel, Betar’s efforts in promoting aliyah, facilitating immigration, and fostering resilience among Jewish communities came to fruition. The movement’s dedication to Jewish sovereignty and identity played a crucial role in this historic achievement.
Continuing the Legacy
Today, Betar continues to build on its legacy, championing the values of Zionism and resilience in the face of modern challenges. As it inspires a new generation of leaders, Betar remains a movement rooted in the ideals of strength, pride, and an unwavering dedication to the Jewish people and the State of Israel.