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History by the Ounce

For the better part of three decades, Barbara Tuchman reigned as a master of historical storytelling, combining conscientious research, sage judgment, and literary flair.Vayakhel-Pekudei: Symbols and Sabbaths

The construction and inauguration of the mishkan (tabernacle) that we have been following for the past month comes to an end, along with the Book of Exodus, in this week's double portion. Curiously, it is enveloped by references and allusions to Shabbat at its outset and at its close.Hezbollah’s Relentless Rage

The only reason Israel has been able to survive in the Middle East, and even to flourish there, is because its enemies' armies are incompetent. But Hezbollah is a different case.Defending Defense

When Amir Peretz commissioned a missile defense system five years ago, he faced blanket opposition from the IDF, who saw attack as the best form of defense. But none doubt Iron Dome now.The Islamic World’s Quiet Revolution

The average number of children born to women has fallen dramatically across the Middle East, falsifying the thesis that fertility always correlates with economic development.Jews Rush In

A year after Japan's deadly tsunami, the community has not forgotten the almost instantaneous global Jewish response to the disaster.Amalek and Moral Ambiguity

While halakhically persuasive, a new study of the moral contradiction inherent in the commandment to wipe out the Amalekites is not emotionally sufficient.Mr. Popularity

Shimon Peres was widely reviled during his career in the Labor Party, much to the bemusement of political pundits. But, just as inexplicably, he has come to enjoy near-universal approval as President. Descendants of David

From the Baal Shem Tov to the Imperial Solomonic Dynasty of Ethiopia, many have claimed descent from King David. And according to Davidic genealogists, all of them are right.