George Jonas, Hungarian-Canadian journalist, author, and poet (b. 1935)

George Jonas, CM (June 15, 1935 – January 10, 2016) was a highly distinguished Hungarian-born Canadian intellectual, celebrated for his multifaceted contributions as a prolific writer, insightful poet, and trenchant journalist. His profound impact on Canadian public discourse spanned decades, marked by his sharp intellect and unwavering commitment to his principles.

A staunch advocate for individual liberty and limited government, Jonas famously described himself as a classical liberal. This philosophical stance deeply informed his extensive body of work, which often challenged conventional wisdom and promoted critical thinking on political, social, and cultural issues. Throughout his distinguished career, he authored a remarkable 16 books, showcasing his versatility across various genres, from incisive non-fiction to evocative poetry.

Among his most notable literary achievements is the internationally acclaimed bestseller, Vengeance: The True Story of an Israeli Counter-Terrorist Team (1984). This gripping non-fiction account delves into the clandestine world of covert operations, narrating the dramatic and controversial Israeli mission, known colloquially as 'Operation Wrath of God,' to track down and eliminate the terrorists responsible for the horrific 1972 Munich massacre. The massacre, which occurred during the Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany, saw eleven Israeli Olympic team members, a West German police officer, and five Palestinian Black September terrorists killed, leaving an indelible mark on global history.

The compelling and contentious narrative of Jonas's book captivated filmmakers, leading to its adaptation for the screen on two significant occasions, bringing the intense story to an even wider audience. The first adaptation was the 1986 television film, Sword of Gideon, which provided an early cinematic interpretation of the covert events. Nearly two decades later, the story gained even greater prominence with the release of the critically acclaimed 2005 feature film, Munich, directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg. This cinematic masterpiece further cemented the story's place in popular culture and sparked renewed global debate about the complex ethical dimensions of state-sponsored retaliation and counter-terrorism.

Jonas's enduring legacy is not only defined by his impactful books but also by his extensive journalistic career. He was a prominent columnist for major Canadian newspapers such as The National Post and The Globe and Mail, where his incisive commentary and thought-provoking analysis shaped public opinion. His significant contributions to Canadian literature and public discourse were formally recognized with his appointment as a Member of the Order of Canada (CM), one of the nation's highest civilian honours, a testament to his profound influence.

Frequently Asked Questions about George Jonas and Vengeance

Who was George Jonas?
George Jonas, CM, was a distinguished Hungarian-born Canadian writer, poet, and journalist known for his classical liberal views and his extensive body of work, which included 16 books and numerous influential columns in major Canadian newspapers.
What is the book Vengeance about?
Vengeance (1984) is a bestselling non-fiction book by George Jonas that chronicles the alleged Israeli operation to track down and eliminate the terrorists responsible for the 1972 Munich massacre, an event where eleven Israeli Olympians and others were killed by the Black September terrorist group.
How many times has Vengeance been adapted into a film?
George Jonas's book Vengeance has been adapted into film twice: first as the 1986 television movie Sword of Gideon, and later as the acclaimed 2005 feature film Munich, directed by Steven Spielberg.
What does "classical liberal" mean in the context of George Jonas?
For George Jonas, being a "classical liberal" meant advocating for core principles such as individual liberty, limited government intervention, free markets, and freedom of speech. This philosophical stance heavily influenced his analytical and often contrarian commentary on political and social issues.