Cristao-novos (New Christians) and Early Zionism The two influencers of the Portuguese Cristao-novo movement of the early 20 Century, Barros Basto and Samuel Schwarz were both inspired by early Zionist thought. Both referred to Herzel and his vision of a Jewish state. Barros Basto, in his publication “Halapid” outlines “The idea of the resurrection of the Hebrew people arises, with Theodore Herzl, prophet and great apostle” When referring to the idea of a homeland for Jews (in Palestine), Basto states in 1929 “The Hebrew National Home was created, and is attended by Israelites from all parts of the world, all ages and from all social positions.”Schwarz more so than Basto, is a defiant Zionist who attended the 11 Zionist Congress in 1913. Held in Vienna, the Congress considered settlement issues in Palestine and other. It is most probable that Schwarz brought with him Zionist thoughts to the Beira Cristao-novos.