Record of interview with "EV"

  • Reference
    • GB 133 HOW/12
  • Dates of Creation
    • 10 Feb 1950
  • Physical Description
    • 4 sheets

Scope and Content

"EV" has not been identified. The interview describes Wingate's introduction to Zionism,and his experience of anti-Semitism in British army. Says Wingate was sympathetic to Haganah. Gives his view of Brigadier John Evetts of 16th Brigade and Wingate's superior officer, saying that Evetts became less pro-Arab after a reprimand for his mistreatment of the mayor of Nablus. Wingate initially based at Haifa but moved to HQ in Jerusalem, where he encountered anti-Semitism and did not like working In Jerusalem. He got away by offering to investigate border smuggling. This was how he got to meet Haganah personnel.

Wingate's visit to Hanita, where demonstrated his skills at moving across terrain. At Tirat Zvi, there were some suspicions of Wingate. Some Haganah men like Eliahu Golomb initially believed that Wingate was a spy, but then changed his mind, and got Wingate a new car. Haim Sturmann considered Wingate was "too daring" . EV suggests that the SNS may have got support from the Iraq Petroleum Co. to protect the pipeline. Opposition from the SNS from the Transjordan Frontier Force. EV describes the training routine at Ein Harod settlement; Wingate opposed Jacob Dori as commander at Ein Harod. Mentions Meir Rutberg as a Wingate supporter (Jewish trades unionist).