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Herzl and Zionism

This excerpt is from "Address to the First Zionist Congress" delivered by Theodore Herzl in 1897. The speech was delivered during the First Zionist Congress, which was held in Basel, Switzerland. The congress was organized by Herzl, who is considered the father of modern political Zionism.
We shall hear news of the situation of the Jews in different countries. All of you know, if only vaguely, that this situation, except for a few exceptional cases, is not a cause for joy. It is doubtful if we would be assembled here if the situation was otherwise. The uniformity of our destiny was interrupted by a long hiatus, though the scattered parts of the Jewish nation were condemned to share similar suffering in different places. Only in our times do we have the possibility, thanks to the modern miracle of transportation, to exchange information and create contact between the separated [communities]. . . 

Zionism has already managed to accomplish a wondrous thing, previously thought to be impossible: the firm bond between the most modern elements of of Judaism with the most conservative. Since this has occurred without the need for either side to make undignified concessions or to make mental sacrifices, it is additional proof, if such proof was needed, that the Jews are a nation. This union could only be possible against a national background.
Theodore Herzl, "Address to the First Zionist Congress," 1897

Question 1

Short answer
Identify one benefit of Zionism described in the excerpt.

Question 2

Short answer
Explain one way how the speech reflects the upswell of nationalist thought in late 19th-century Europe.

Question 3

Short answer
Explain one way that the Zionist goal of a Jewish homeland was challenged between 1897 and 1914.

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