How a Language Instruction Program Served to Acculturate, Indoctrinate and Forge Israel’s National Identity

In Memory of Sara Batz

The ulpan is designed to teach adult immigrants to Israel the basic language skills of conversation, writing and comprehension. But the ulpan is much more than an intensive and highly effective language instruction program - most ulpanim also provide instruction in the fundamentals of Israeli culture, history, and geography. The concept of the ulpan was initiated soon after the creation of Israel in 1948, when the new country was faced with a massive influx of new immigrants, refugees from war-torn Europe, oppressed and disadvantaged communities from Africa and the Middle East, and others from all parts of the world. Although all were recognized as Jewish, their language and culture varied widely. Attendance at an ulpan and learning the Hebrew language served as a common bond that helped to turn immigrants into Israelis. Come learn how the ulpan experience developed a shared identity and sense of statehood.