The Damascus Seat of Power: Syria’s Heads of State, 1918-1946

This book explores the political history of Syria from 1918 to 1946, focusing on the first eleven heads of state who governed the country during this period. It sheds light on the political culture of the time, tracing the trajectory of governance through colonialism, monarchism, federalism, and republicanism. The study draws on numerous archives, political memoirs, and first-hand interviews with key figures, providing a rich picture of Syrian political culture during this forgotten period.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 16 November 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

While recent scholarship has focused on the tumultuous period of wartime Syria, this comprehensive book delves into the lives and reigns of the heads of state who presided over the country during the immediate post-Ottoman era, stretching from 1918 to the end of the French Mandate in 1946. Renowned Syrian historian, Sami Moubayed, has painstakingly compiled a detailed examination of Syria's first eleven heads of state, shedding light on their political culture and the trajectory of governance that shaped the nation during this forgotten era.

The study is divided into individual chapters dedicated to each leader, providing a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of their respective reigns. Moubayed delves into the complex web of colonialism, monarchism, federalism, and republicanism that characterized Syria's political landscape during this period. Through meticulous research and the use of numerous archives, political memoirs, and first-hand interviews with key figures who were active between the 1930s and 1950s, Moubayed has crafted a rich and detailed portrait of Syrian political culture during this neglected period.

The book offers a valuable insight into the political, social, and economic developments that unfolded in Syria during a crucial period of its history. It sheds light on the struggles and challenges faced by the leaders, as well as the broader social and cultural context that influenced their decisions and actions. By exploring the lives and legacies of these forgotten leaders, this book contributes to our understanding of Syria's past and its place in the broader regional and global context.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in Syria's history, politics, and culture. It provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of the country's first eleven heads of state, shedding light on a period that has been largely overlooked in the academic literature. Through meticulous research and a deep understanding of the historical context, Moubayed has crafted a work that is both informative and engaging, offering a valuable contribution to our understanding of Syria's past and its potential future.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755649198