On this day: Arthur James Balfour

Balfour was known to be a somewhat shy man, yet was criticised for being self-obsessed and vane, with his unique personality often referred to as the "Balfour Manner".

The Balfour Declaration drastically changed the public conception of a Jewish state, with the idea entering mainstream debate in the years after the publication of the declaration.

The original document, a letter sent by Balfour to Baron Rothschild, a close friend, and leader of the British Jewish community, is now stored in the British Museum. Balfour, who died 13 years later, is remembered as being a Zionist and a friend of the Jewish community.

What the JC said: Arthur Balfour's name will ever be specially remembered by the Jews with the affection and gratitude not only for the Declaration, but also for his unceasing interest in the implementation of his Zionist policies. His sincerity of purpose was a constant encouragement and inspiration to all who laboured for its successful development.

See more from the JC archives here.