Theodor Herzl (1860–1904) is widely considered the father of Zionism, without whose influence the state of Israel might never have come into being. In his acclaimed biography Theodor Herzl: The Charismatic Leader, published in 2020 and translated into German in 2022 titled Theodor Herzl: Staatsmann ohne Staat (Theodor Herzl. Statesman Without a State), historian Derek Penslar portrays Herzl's commitment to Zionism as an escape from a personal crisis. He outlines how, at a critical moment in Jewish history, his charismatic personality became key to the mobilization of a broader and more committed following.

Derek Penslar, William Lee Frost Professor of Jewish History at Harvard University and a leading historian of Zionism, and Dr. Stefan Vogt (Frankfurt University) will discuss the complex figure of Theodor Herzl and his position in the Zionist movement of his time. Dr. Daniel Wildmann, program director of the W. Michael Blumenthal Academy, will moderate the discussion.