Pinhas Rutenberg

Pinhas Rutenberg was a Russian-Jewish engineer and businessman, born in 1879. His early life in Russia was marked by involvement in the Socialist Revolutionary Party, but he was forced to flee due to the Bolshevik revolution. During World War I, Rutenberg played a significant role in the founding of the Jewish Legion and the American Jewish Congress, demonstrating his commitment to Jewish causes. As a skilled hydraulic engineer, he later leveraged his expertise to make a lasting impact in a new region.

Rutenberg's immigration to Mandatory Palestine marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, as he successfully obtained a concession for the production and distribution of electric power. In 1923, he founded the Palestine Electric Corporation, which would eventually become the Israel Electric Corporation. A dedicated Zionist, Rutenberg was also instrumental in establishing the Haganah and founding Palestine Airways. His leadership abilities and vision earned him the presidency of the Jewish National Council, cementing his position as a key figure in the development of the region. Rutenberg passed away in 1942, leaving behind a legacy of technological innovation and tireless advocacy for the Jewish community.