Teddy Kollek, Hungarian-Israeli politician, Mayor of Jerusalem (b. 1911)

Theodor "Teddy" Kollek: A Visionary Architect of Modern Jerusalem

Who was Theodor "Teddy" Kollek? Born Theodor Kollek in Nagyvázsony, Hungary, on May 27, 1911 (and passing away on January 2, 2007), he became a towering figure in Israeli politics. A pivotal statesman, Kollek served with distinction as the Mayor of Jerusalem from 1965 to 1993. Beyond his extensive public service, he was also the visionary founder of the Jerusalem Foundation, an organization dedicated to the city's development and beautification.

A Transformative Mayoral Tenure and Unprecedented Re-elections

Kollek's tenure as Mayor of Jerusalem, spanning an impressive 28 years, was marked by an unwavering dedication to the city. He was not just a politician but a dynamic leader who was re-elected an remarkable five times: in 1969, 1973, 1978, 1983, and 1989. This consistent public mandate underscored the broad appeal and trust he commanded among Jerusalem's diverse population.

His leadership was particularly transformative after the reunification of Jerusalem following the 1967 Six-Day War. Under his stewardship, Jerusalem blossomed into a truly modern metropolis. This period saw a significant expansion of its infrastructure, the establishment of world-renowned cultural institutions such as the Israel Museum and the Jerusalem Theater, and the creation of numerous public parks and green spaces. His tireless efforts in urban planning, preservation of historical sites, and the development of essential services earned him widespread acclaim. It was during this era that he famously earned the moniker, "the greatest builder of Jerusalem since Herod," a testament to his profound impact on the city's physical and cultural landscape.

The Jerusalem Foundation: An Enduring Legacy

One of Kollek's most significant contributions was the establishment of the Jerusalem Foundation in 1966. This non-profit organization, which continues its vital work today, was founded with the explicit aim of raising funds internationally to support the cultural, social, and beautification projects within Jerusalem. The Foundation played a crucial role in securing resources for many of the initiatives that transformed the city during Kollek's mayoral period, including museums, parks, community centers, and educational programs, all designed to enhance the quality of life for all Jerusalemites and foster inter-communal understanding.

The End of an Era and Lasting Impact

After an extraordinary period of leadership, Kollek, at the age of 82, reluctantly sought a seventh term in 1993. This election marked the culmination of his long and illustrious career, but also a shift in the political landscape. He ultimately lost to the Likud candidate, Ehud Olmert, who would later become Prime Minister of Israel. Despite this electoral defeat, Kollek's legacy as the "Mayor for All Jerusalem" remained indelible. His vision for Jerusalem as a vibrant, inclusive city – a mosaic of cultures and faiths where all communities could thrive – continues to influence urban policy and inter-communal relations in the Holy City. His dedication to pluralism and his hands-on approach to governance left an enduring mark on Jerusalem, solidifying his place as one of its most influential and beloved figures.