The Zionists put forward the thesis that, like other peoples seeking ways to national revival and statehood, the Czechs, Poles or Armenians, the Jews are a people who have the right to live freely and securely in their own state.
When the Olomouc Zion Society celebrated 40 years of existence, it was proud of a letter received in 1897 from the founder of the Zionist movement himself, Theodor Herzl.
Simplified translation of the letter:
"Dear Sirs, I cannot accept your kind invitation, yet let me express my sincere thanks for it. I am currently really overloaded with work. You yourself, more than any of us, are doing the daily work to promote Zionism. The great body of our national idea is growing. Establish a new group and you will have rendered a great service to the whole. With Zionist greetings, yours truly Theodor Herzl."
Who was Theodor Herzl? Why was a letter from him so significant for the national Jews of Olomouc?