Past Forward

Abstract

This article argues that planning benefits from a historical perspective, affording planners better understanding of current contexts, situations, and the different actors involved. This article draws on integrated historical knowledge acquired from archival research and fieldwork in order to discuss Moshav Gadish, planned and implemented as part of Israel’s nation-building project in the 1950s. Combining official planning material and residents’ personal stories, it highlights the gap between planning intentions and actuality on the ground. A “thick description” of Gadish, derived from the need for deeper understanding of previous planning decisions, emphasizes current planning issues and suggests future planning approaches.