Ron Nachman, Israeli lawyer and politician (b. 1942)
Ron Nachman (Hebrew: רון נחמן, 6 August 1942 – 18 January 2013) was a prominent Israeli politician and a former member of the Knesset, Israel's unicameral parliament, where he represented the Likud party. His most enduring legacy, however, lies in his pivotal role as the visionary founder of Ariel, one of the largest and most strategically significant Israeli settlements in the West Bank, where he served as its mayor for nearly three decades.
Ron Nachman's Political Career and Knesset Membership
During his tenure in the Knesset, Israel's unicameral legislative body and primary law-making institution, Ron Nachman served as a representative for the Likud party. Likud, a major right-wing to centre-right political party in Israel, is historically known for its nationalist platform, emphasis on strong national security, and typically advocates for economic liberalization and a free-market economy. Nachman's political career within Likud underscored his commitment to these core principles, contributing to the party's agenda during his time as an elected official.
Founding and Leading Ariel: A Long-Term Vision
Ron Nachman is widely recognized as the driving force behind the establishment and long-term development of Ariel. Founded in 1978, Ariel rapidly grew under his leadership from a nascent community into a bustling urban center. As its mayor from 1985 until his passing in 2013 – a remarkable 28-year continuous term – Nachman meticulously oversaw Ariel's expansion, transforming it into a significant city.
Situated in the northern West Bank, Ariel holds a prominent and often debated position among Israeli settlements. Under Nachman's stewardship, it evolved to become one of the largest settlements, strategically located along the Trans-Samaria Highway. His vision for Ariel extended beyond mere residential expansion; he was instrumental in establishing Ariel University, which began as a college and gained full university status during his mayoral tenure. This transformation cemented Ariel's role as a vital regional hub for education, commerce, and public services within the West Bank.
Ron Nachman's Enduring Legacy
Ron Nachman's political journey, from a Knesset member to the long-serving mayor of Ariel, cemented his place as a key figure in Israeli public life and settlement development. His unwavering dedication to Ariel’s growth and prosperity shaped not only the city itself but also significantly influenced the broader discourse surrounding Israeli presence and infrastructure in the West Bank. His nearly three decades at the helm of Ariel are a testament to his enduring impact on the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ron Nachman
- Who was Ron Nachman?
- Ron Nachman was an influential Israeli politician, a former member of the Knesset representing the Likud party, and notably, the visionary founder and long-serving mayor of Ariel, one of the largest Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
- What was Ron Nachman's role in the Likud party?
- Ron Nachman served as a Knesset member for the Likud party, a prominent right-wing political party in Israel known for its national security focus and economic liberalism. He contributed to the party's legislative efforts and policies during his parliamentary tenure.
- What is Ariel, and what was Ron Nachman's connection to it?
- Ariel is one of the largest Israeli settlements located in the West Bank. Ron Nachman was its founder, establishing it in 1978, and subsequently served as its mayor for 28 years, from 1985 until his death in 2013. He oversaw its significant growth and development, including the establishment of Ariel University.
- How long was Ron Nachman the mayor of Ariel?
- Ron Nachman served as the mayor of Ariel for an extensive period of 28 years, from 1985 until his death on January 18, 2013.
- When did Ron Nachman pass away?
- Ron Nachman passed away on January 18, 2013.