Historical Encyclopedia
Syria, as a modern state, has a long and complex history that encompasses numerous cultural, religious, and political aspects. The independence of Syria is a key moment in its history, as this process concluded more than two decades of foreign rule and marked the beginning of a new era in the country's development. The process of gaining independence became an important milestone in shaping the national identity and political culture of Syria.
After the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire following World War I, Syria came under French control. In 1920, the League of Nations granted France a mandate to govern Syria and Lebanon. This period became a time of significant changes in the country, including administrative, economic, and social reforms that were often met with resistance from the local population. The French administration attempted to divide the country into several autonomous units, which only fueled nationalist sentiments among the Syrians.
Against the backdrop of growing discontent, the Great Syrian Revolt erupted between 1925 and 1927. This uprising became a mass protest against French rule, involving various strata of society. Despite the suppression of the revolt, it became a landmark event in the struggle for independence, demonstrating the determination of the Syrians to be liberated from colonial oppression.
In the 1930s, various nationalist organizations began to form in Syria, which became centers for the struggle for independence. One of the most prominent groups was the Syrian National Movement, which sought unity among Arab countries and independence from foreign control. These movements actively utilized political propaganda, organized rallies, and demonstrations, trying to attract international attention to the issues faced by Syrians.
At the beginning of World War II in 1940, a struggle for influence unfolded in Syria among various powers. France, which was occupied by the Nazis, weakened its position in the region, which facilitated the rise of the national movement. The situation in the country changed after the arrival of British troops, who engaged in conflict with French collaborators, allowing Syrians to intensify their efforts towards independence.
After the end of World War II in 1945, there was growing discontent in Syria, leading to mass protests and demands for independence. In 1946, under pressure from the international community and the growing nationalist movement, the French authorities announced their intention to leave the country. April 17, 1946, became the date when Syria officially gained independence, and this day is now celebrated as a national holiday.
Syria became an independent state; however, many issues remained to be resolved. The political situation in the country remained unstable, and soon a series of coups and conflicts began, complicating the process of establishing a fully functioning state apparatus. Despite this, independence allowed Syrians to begin forming their national identity and developing their political system.
After gaining independence, Syria faced numerous internal and external problems. Various factions emerged on the political landscape of the country, each with its own interests and goals. In 1949, the first military coup occurred, marking the beginning of an era of political instability. An atmosphere of dissatisfaction and uncertainty prevailed in the country, eventually leading to the emergence of authoritarian regimes and military rule.
Syria also faced a conflict with Israel, which arose from the establishment of Israel in 1948. This conflict became one of the main issues of Syria’s foreign policy for many years to come. The open confrontation with Israel, particularly during the 1967 war, affected the internal political situation and intensified authoritarian tendencies in governance.
The independence of Syria in 1946 was an important step towards self-determination and the development of national identity. However, this process did not end with the attainment of freedom, and the country faced numerous challenges that defined its fate over the following decades. The independence of Syria left a deep mark in the history of the country and continues to influence its modern political and social processes.