Syria 1945-1986 (RLE Syria): Politics and SocietySyria has often lacked sympathetic observers. This book tries to interpret the country and its people in terms of how they see their own history and of what they are trying to achieve. More than a political or diplomatic history, it discusses the economy, society, education and culture to help the reader understand and explain modern Syria. A description of the country deals with the physical and other factors which have influenced Syria’s development. An historical survey concentrates mainly on the period after the Second World War and explains why a knowledge of Syrian history is important and why Syrians look at their history in the way they do. The achievements, problems and failures of President Asad are fully discussed. Further chapters explain the ideological factors which have been of vital importance in Syrian politics, the development of education, the economy and society. The author looks at examples of contemporary Syrian literature and the way in which writers view the problems of their society and culture. This is a clear, succinct and readable account of modern Syria which will be essential for all those studying the Middle East, the developing world or international relations. |
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... religious buildings were put up and the city walls and towers were strengthened or rebuilt. This was during the period of the Crusades although the city itself was not attacked. The Muslim leader Saladin was buried in Damascus to the ...
... religion has been at the root of life and society in Syria. First and foremost Syria is a Muslim country. The Great Mosque in Damascus has been the focus of religious life and learning and is considered to be the fourth holiest place in ...
... religious minority. They live chiefly along the coast near Latakia although the town itself is Sunni. Their religion is a mysterious amalgam of pre-Islamic features, extreme Shiism and Christian elements. They deify Ali and are very ...
... religion in a closed community which keeps its doctrines secret. They frown on intermarriage and try to forbid both conversion and apostacy. They have tried to govern themselves as far as possible in their mountain retreats and now form ...
... religion and language (Aramaic). In addition there were three Arab groups which had founded early Syrian states. They were kingdoms on the desert frontiers and they owed their origins to the settling of nomadic tribes and their ...
Contents
1935 | |
Independence 19451970 | 1945 |
Syria under Asad 19711986 | 18 |
Politics and Ideologies | |
The Search for Economic Progress | |
The Pursuit of Education | |
The Growth of Culture | |
People and Society | |
Conclusion | |
Index | |