Emile Zola revealed himself to be not just a French writer at the end of the 19th century when he spoke about the Dreyfus affair. He brought proof of anti-Semitism to everyone at the gates of France with his article “J’accuse”. Zola stood up for the truth even though he knew there would be consequences for him. His article prevented the public from ignoring the harsh truth that the French army falsely accused a Jew. Zola believed that truth and justice were two of the most important values. Zola would do everything in his power to ensure that the truth was revealed and justice was done. The Dreyfus Affair highlighted institutionalized anti-Semitism and corruption in government. It also gives hope to Jewish people targeted by anti-Semitic behavior, that one day they will no longer be mistreated because of their religion and will have the freedom to practice as they wish. In September 1894, French army intelligence became aware of a security breach where a French National Defense document was found shared with the German army. This document became known as the “bordereau”. The document was addressed to von Schwartzkoppen, the German military attaché. In October, suspicion fell on Alfred Dreyfus, captain of the Alsatian Jewish army in the artillery branch. After being convicted of treason, Dreyfus was sent to Devil's Island in French Guiana. Without any real evidence against Dreyfus, the majority of France still insisted on his guilt (Fitch). This in itself illustrates anti-Semitism in France at the end of the 19th century. The only evidence was analysis of the handwriting of a slip found, which had been falsely labeled as Dreyfus by three different analysts. Lieutenant-Colonel Georges Picquart middle of paper ......ustice, and with perseverance and courage to express himself, his only objective in "J'accuse" was achieved. “Today, the truth has won, justice finally reigns and I am reborn. » (Zola 126)Works citedDatta, Venita. “The Dreyfus affair and anti-Semitism: Jewish identity at “La Revue Blanche”” Historical Reflections / Historical Reflections 21.1 (1995): 113-29. JSTOR. Internet. February 28, 2014. Fitch, Nancy. “Mass culture, mass parliamentary politics and modern anti-Semitism: the Dreyfus affair in rural France.” The American Historical Review 97.1 (1992): 55-95. JSTOR. Internet. March 2, 2014. McKay, John P. et al. “Republican France”. A History of World Societies. By John P. McKay. 9th ed. Flight. 2. NP: Bedford/St. Martin's, 2012. 742. Print. Zola, Emile. The Dreyfus Affair: “J’accuse” and other writings. Ed. Alain Pages. Trans. Eléonore Levieux. Np: Yale UP, 1996. Print.