The Damascus Affair of 1840 was an infamous blood libel that became international news and led to one of the first instances in which Jewish communities around the world worked together to demand justice for another Jewish community. The Damascus blood libel is recognized as one of the turning points in modern Jewish history when world Jewry realized the importance of uniting to advocate for each other.

  1. 2003 – Space Shuttle Columbia Disaster Date: 29 Shevat 5763 (February 1, 2003) On this day, the Space Shuttle Columbia broke apart during re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere, leading to the tragic loss of all seven crew members. Among them was Ilan Ramon, the first Israeli astronaut. Ramon carried with him a miniature Torah […]