The chapter delves into the French colonial rule in Syria and the struggle for independence in the 1940s, discussing how the French suppression and divisive policies led to revolts in various regions. It explores the complex political landscape during World War II, with British pressures for Syrian independence and various leadership bids post-independence. The narrative emphasizes the importance of local forces in shaping Syria's independence, the nationalist mobilization against French control, and the influences of different imperial powers in the region.
Featuring Abdel Razzaq Takriti, this is the FIFTH episode of Thawra (Revolution), our rolling mini-series on Arab radicalism in the 20th century. Today’s installment lays out the early years of a struggle for Syria that would decisively shape the Arab world: the fight for independence from France, the first (CIA-backed) coup of 1949, and the rise of the Ba’ath and Communist movements.
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