Historian Studies Palestinian Identity in Latin America

Why this is here: Before 1948, Palestinian migrants in Latin America were actively building a national identity and seeking citizenship in their adopted countries.

Nadim Bawalsa, a Palestinian historian, examines early Palestinian communities in Latin America. He details how these migrants developed a national identity before 1948. Bawalsa’s book, Transnational Palestine, shows these communities actively sought citizenship and recognition in their new homes.

These Palestinians began dreaming of returning to Palestine decades before displacement became widespread. Bawalsa’s work reveals a history of nation-building existing outside of Palestine itself.

The article notes the research focuses on the period before the defining experience of exile shaped Palestinian identity. It does not address how later events impacted the communities studied or the long-term effects of displacement. Bawalsa continues to research the Palestinian diaspora and its evolving sense of belonging.