Golda Meir | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : March 28, 2025

Who is Golda Meir?

Golda Meir was a prominent Israeli politician known for her significant contributions to the establishment and governance of the State of Israel. Born Goldie Mabovitch on May 3, 1898, in Kiev, Ukraine, she emigrated with her family to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, at a young age. An ardent Zionist from her teenage years, Meir was deeply involved in the political landscape of Israel from the 1940s to the 1970s. Her determination and political acumen led her to various pivotal roles, including Minister of Labor and Foreign Minister, culminating in her appointment as Israel's fourth Prime Minister in 1969, making her one of the world's first female heads of state.

Meir's political career was marked by her fierce advocacy for Jewish immigration to Palestine during World War II, as she worked tirelessly against British policies that restricted Jewish entry. After Israel declared its independence in 1948, she became a crucial figure in shaping its early governance. As Prime Minister, she balanced the demands of military security with efforts for peace, navigating complex dynamics during significant conflicts, such as the Yom Kippur War of 1973. Despite retiring from public life later in her career, her influence on Israeli politics and her legacy as a trailblazer for women in leadership roles continue to resonate in contemporary society. Golda Meir passed away on December 8, 1978, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Israel.

Early Life and Education

Golda Meir, originally born Goldie Mabovitch on May 3, 1898, in Kiev, Ukraine, emerged from a family deeply affected by anti-Semitic violence. Her father, Moshe Mabovitch, took extraordinary measures to protect his family during the 1905 pogroms, which led to their relocation to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1906. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter for Golda, who would go on to become an influential figure in Jewish and Israeli politics. In Milwaukee, Golda attended North Division High School, where she developed her passion for social justice and became active in a Zionist organization advocating for a Jewish homeland in Palestine.

Despite her parents' hopes for her to marry rather than pursue higher education, Golda defied expectations. She enrolled at Milwaukee Normal School (presently the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee) in 1916, earning her teaching certificate. This period was crucial as it marked her commitment not only to education but also to the ideals of Zionism. After graduating, she married Morris Meyerson, and together they immigrated to Palestine in 1921, where she officially changed her name to Golda Meir. This change symbolized her steadfast resolve to serve the Jewish people and contribute significantly to the establishment of Israel.

Becoming a Political Operative

Golda Meir's transition from a private citizen to a political operant began after she and her husband, Morris Meyerson, immigrated to Palestine in 1921. Settling in the Merhavia kibbutz, Meir quickly immersed herself in the burgeoning Zionist movement. Her commitment to the cause intensified after the couple moved to Jerusalem, where she represented the Histadrut Trade Union and became a delegate to the World Zionist Organization. It was during this formative period that Meir honed her skills in political advocacy and leadership, positioning herself as an influential voice in the fight for a Jewish homeland.

Before the outbreak of World War II, Meir played a crucial role in the Zionist movement, advocating against British policies that restricted Jewish immigration to Palestine amid rising tensions and persecution in Europe. Her fierce determination led her to serve as a chief liaison with the British, where she worked tirelessly to secure the release of Jewish activists and war refugees. Through fundraising initiatives in the United States, Meir raised significant financial support for the establishment of an independent Jewish state, solidifying her reputation as a skilled political operative who operated at the heart of the Zionist struggle.

Working to Legitimize the Jewish State

Golda Meir played a pivotal role in the establishment of the State of Israel and worked tirelessly to legitimize its existence on the world stage. In 1948, following the declaration of Israel's independence, Meir was appointed as the minister to Moscow. However, as tensions erupted between Arab nations and the newly founded state, she swiftly returned to Israel and was elected to the Knesset, Israel's parliament. Her diplomatic efforts included a daring secret mission to persuade King Abdullah I of Jordan not to enter the conflict against Israel, although he ultimately declined, leading to full-scale war involving multiple Arab nations.

Following the successful conclusion of the war and the signing of armistice agreements, Meir's political influence grew. As the minister of labor, she addressed critical housing and employment challenges in the nascent Israeli state through large-scale residential and infrastructure projects. Building connections internationally, Meir served as foreign minister, promoting relations with emerging African nations and strengthening ties with the United States and Latin America. Her leadership during these formative years was instrumental in validating Israel's sovereignty and fostering its development as a democratic state in a tumultuous region.

Becoming Prime Minister

After a distinguished career in Israeli politics, Golda Meir found herself at a crossroads in her life at age 68. Initially considering retirement due to fatigue and health issues, she was urged by her colleagues in the Mapai political party to continue her public service. Meir played a pivotal role in consolidating her party with two dissident groups, ultimately forming the Israel Labor Party. This political maneuvering positioned her as a key player in Israeli governance, preparing her for the challenges ahead.

Following the untimely death of Prime Minister Levi Eshkol in 1969, Meir decided to put her retirement plans on hold once more. She took on the responsibility of leading the country for the remainder of Eshkol's term, guiding Israel through a critical period. During the elections later that year, her party emerged triumphant, solidifying her position as the fourth Prime Minister of Israel. This achievement made her one of the first women in the world to hold such a title, marking a significant milestone in both Israeli and global politics.

The Yom Kippur War

The Yom Kippur War, which erupted on October 6, 1973, was a significant conflict that involved Israel’s military engagements with Syrian and Egyptian forces. On the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, Yom Kippur, Israeli intelligence was caught off guard as these belligerent nations launched a coordinated surprise attack. Prime Minister Golda Meir faced a critical moment in deciding Israel's military strategy, as the pressures of ensuring national security were heightened by the possibility of international condemnation. Meir opted for a defensive posture rather than a preemptive strike, believing that such action could jeopardize Israel’s diplomatic relations, especially with the United States.

The initial phases of the war saw Israel struggling against the advancing enemy forces, with significant losses incurred on both sides. As the situation developed, Meir had to navigate complex political and military waters, forging a coalition government in response to the national crisis. After three weeks of intense fighting, Israeli forces managed to regain control and even expand their territory. However, the emotional toll and mounting casualties led Meir to resign on April 10, 1974, signaling both an end to her premiership and an intense period of reflection for Israel regarding its military and foreign policies.

Later Life and Death

Golda Meir, who played an instrumental role in the establishment of the State of Israel, spent her later life continuing to influence Israeli politics and society. After stepping down as Prime Minister in 1974, she focused on her health and personal projects, including the publication of her autobiography titled "My Life" in 1975. In her autobiography, she chronicled her journey from her early years in Ukraine to her pivotal role in shaping Israel's policies and existence. Her reflections offered invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs she faced as a pioneering female leader in a predominantly male political landscape.

On December 8, 1978, Golda Meir passed away in Jerusalem at the age of 80. It was later revealed that she had been battling leukemia, a condition that she had kept largely private during her later years. Her death marked the loss of a significant figure in Israeli history and was widely mourned both in Israel and around the world. Golda was laid to rest on December 12, 1978, at Mount Herzl, a cemetery that serves as the final resting place for many of Israel's heroes and leaders. Her legacy as one of the first female heads of state continues to inspire future generations.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

Golda Meir, originally Goldie Mabovitch, married Morris Meyerson in 1917, although this union was met with initial resistance from her parents who hoped she would prioritize family life over a professional career. The couple immigrated to Palestine in 1921, where they settled in the Merhavia kibbutz. This communal lifestyle was a significant shift for Meir, who gradually intensified her involvement in Zionist politics while balancing her responsibilities as a wife and mother. The couple welcomed their first child, a son named Menachem, in 1924, followed by their daughter, Sarah, a few years later.

Throughout her life, Golda Meir’s family was an important aspect of her identity, providing support during her politically demanding career. When Morris passed away in 1951, Meir was left to navigate the challenges of leadership in a new nation while caring for her children. Golda deeply valued her role as a mother, fostering a close relationship with her children despite the demands of her position. This balance of family and politics not only shaped her personal life but also influenced her approach to leadership, wherein she became a motherly figure to the Israeli populace, dedicated to the well-being of her country and its citizens.

Net Worth and Earning: Earnings as a Politician

Golda Meir's financial details, particularly her net worth, are not extensively documented, as much of her focus was dedicated to public service rather than personal wealth accumulation. As a prominent political figure and Israel’s fourth Prime Minister, her earnings primarily stemmed from her roles within the Israeli government. Meir’s career began as the Minister of Labor, where she was responsible for numerous initiatives aimed at solving employment and housing issues in the newly established state. Later, as Foreign Minister and eventually Prime Minister, her salary and financial benefits were consistent with other heads of state, but specific figures are largely speculative.

Meir's commitment to her political and diplomatic endeavors often overshadowed any material concerns. Her legacy is rooted in her significant contributions to the formation of Israel and her tireless advocacy for her homeland. Despite being a public figure who faced challenges, including the pressures of leadership during tumultuous times such as the Yom Kippur War, her financial standing reflects a life dedicated to service rather than personal gain. Following her retirement, she authored her autobiography, which, while not a major source of income, added to her status as a revered leader in Israel's history.