The Zionist movement is a political and cultural movement that began in the late 19th century, aiming to establish a national homeland for the Jewish people in Palestine. It emerged in response to widespread anti-Semitism and persecution faced by Jews in Europe. The movement was formally organized by Theodor Herzl, who convened the first Zionist Congress in 1897. Over the years, the movement gained momentum, leading to increased Jewish immigration to Palestine and the establishment of various institutions to support Jewish settlement. The culmination of the movement's efforts was the declaration of the State of Israel in 1948, which marked a significant milestone in Jewish history.