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The Shas party is one of rich cultural history and great importance to Israeli Democracy. The party began as a local municipal list in Jerusalem in 1984, and a mere 15 years later won an unexpected 17 seats in the Israeli Knesset, making it the third most powerful party in the country. The history of the party, it?s unwavering beliefs in the Jewish laws, and it?s unfaltering opposition to a Palestinian state make this unique party not only a spiritual giant, but a force to be reckoned with. When the Israeli State was established in 1948, combined with the incredible persecution that was being felt by Jews that were currently living in Arab nations,; and influx of Jews came to Israel. When original leadership was established, the majority of those in charge were Ashkenazic Jews, which was a more secular version of Judaism as supposed to their ?oriental? Sephardic cousins. The Ashkenazim, although recognizing the more observant lifestyle of the Sephardic, decided that with the young stage their new country was in, the best thing would be to shed the more traditional aspects of their religion to make for easier incorporation of themselves into their new Western society.
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