Seattle Times: Israel at 50

A kiss at Jerusalem's Western Wall, the only remnant of the Jews' Second Temple destroyed by the Romans in 70 C.E.

In Hebrew, it is called Ha'aretz -- simply, "The Country." This year, Jews worldwide celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of modern Israel and the struggle by which it has survived. Yet, it will be a muted celebration in many ways. Israel today faces the future as challenged as always, from inside now as well as outside.

This Seattle Times special report looks at the country and the people, and at one family whose generations --- some in Israel, some in the Pacific Northwest -- have lived the country's struggles and celebrations.

BANDWIDTH ALERT:
The Photo Tour contains images up to 50K!

Written by Seattle Times religion reporter Sally Macdonald and Times photographer Betty Udesen.