On the sixtieth anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel an international group of scholars, policy makers, and members of the public gathered at the Harry S Truman Research Institute for the Advancement of Peace on the Hebrew University Campus to examine the diplomatic and political context from which the State of Israel emerged. Presenters placed special emphasis on research using archival materials made available in recent decades. This event also marked the fortieth anniversary of the creation of the Harry S. Truman Research Institute and provided an opportunity to commemorate and reflect on the work supported by the Institute. This collection of the thirteen articles presented at the conference in May 2008 advances the discussion of President Truman's recognition of the State of Israel, highlights ongoing research in international archives, and reviews efforts in the advocacy of peace made possible by the Institute.