thenPalestine

thenPalestine is an online platform and digital archive that focuses on documenting and preserving the history, culture, and daily life of Palestine before the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, an event known as the Nakba ("catastrophe" in Arabic). Launched in 2015, the project aims to provide a comprehensive digital resource for researchers, educators, and the public by compiling photographs, documents, and oral histories from the pre-1948 era.

The platform collects materials from various sources, including personal collections, historical archives, and public institutions. These include photographs of Palestinian cities, villages, and landscapes; maps depicting pre-1948 territorial divisions; and records of Palestinian society, such as schools, mosques, and community events. The content is presented in an interactive format, allowing users to explore historical data through searchable databases, interactive maps, and multimedia exhibits.

thenPalestine is part of a broader effort to counter narratives that exclude or misrepresent Palestinian history. By offering an accessible digital archive, the project seeks to educate global audiences about the rich cultural and social fabric of Palestine prior to the Nakba. It also serves as a tool for Palestinian diaspora communities to reconnect with their roots and for current residents to understand their historical context.

The initiative is supported by a team of historians, archivists, and digital media specialists, often collaborating with Palestinian and international organizations. While primarily focused on pre-1948 Palestine, the platform occasionally includes related materials to provide historical context. thenPalestine remains a valuable resource for academic study, public awareness, and preserving collective memory.