The hidden messages concealed in the 1970s stamp series ‘Landscapes of Israel’

Abstract

This study analyses the Israeli stamp series ‘Landscapes of Israel’ issued between 1971–1980, revealing the series’ geographical pattern, themes and hidden messages. The stamp images and information folders were critically examined within their historical context. The analysis revealed that the spatial distribution of sites also included captured territories, and by this Israel indirectly drew its own borders. Moreover, colour value was used to highlight important topics or create an atmosphere. Furthermore, apart from using the stamps to promote tourism, many of the sites and areas chosen served to promote issues of national pride, connect the Jewish people to the land and illustrate the struggle for Jewish revival and independence.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This research could not have been done without the kind help of the Israel Philatelic Federation and the Israel Postal Company. I would also like to thank Mrs. Amy Klein for proofreading my manuscript and the two anonymous reviewers for their many insightful comments and suggestions.

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

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Gad Schaffer

Dr. Gad Schaffer is a lecturer in the Multidisciplinary department (BA program) and the Galilee Studies (MA program) at Tel-Hai College. Dr. Schaffer is also the academic head of the Historical Cartography Research Institute at Tel-Hai College which promotes research using historical maps and aerials from the 19^th century onward using new technologies of mapping.Dr. Schaffer is a historical geographer, and his expertise is in landscape changes in the Land of Israel from the 19^th century to the present, based on historical maps, aerial and satellite imagery, and the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Dr. Schaffer research interests are landscapes, land use/land cover changes, cartography, cultural landscapes, urban and agricultural landscapes.