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Syria is Central to Empires in the Region
Since before 2000 BC, Syria has always been a settling spot for strong governments. The struggle among various indigenous groups as well as invading foreigners resulted in cultural enrichment and significant contributions to civilization, despite political upheaval or turmoil. -
1925-1940 French Control in Syria
1925-6 - The citizens of Syria did not like how the French had control over their country. This resulted in the uprising of Syria.1928 - Officials of Syria come together in a meeting and create the constitution of Syria. The French reject the Syrian’s requests, which results in Syrian protests.1936 - France agrees to give Syria independence, but signs an agreement to allow the French military to continue to stay in Syria. -
Syria During World War II
1940 - During World War II, Syria is overpowered by the Axis after France loses to Germany.1941 - British and Free French troops occupy Syria. General De Gaulle promises to end the French control of Syria.1946 - Last French troops leave Syria. -
Syrian Independence 1946-1958
Syria earned independence from France in 1946. However, following the gain of independence, there were many coups and countercoups, creating much strife and turmoil for Syria for decades. At times, civilians even controlled the government.The army, however, maintained watch over the various governments and its people throughout this time. -
United Arab Republic 1958-1961
From February 1958 to September 1961, Syria joined with Egypt creating the United Arab Republic (UAR). However, growing Syrian dissatisfaction with Egyptian domination resulted in another military coup in Damascus, and Syria seceded from the UAR. Once again, instability ensued, with frequent changes of government. -
Baath Revolution--1963
The Arab Socialist Resurrection, (commonly referred to as the Baath Party), was a secular, socialist, Arab-nationalist orientation, that took control in a March 1963 coup, which is also referred to as the Baath Revolution. The Baath Party has been active throughout the Middle East since the late 1940s, and a Baath coup had taken place in Iraq one month before the Baath take-over in Syria. -
The Chief Site of the City of Elba Unearthed--1970s
The ancient city of Ebla existed at the center of an expansive empire around 2400 B.C. The chief site, unearthed in the vicinity of Aleppo in the 1970s, contained tablets providing evidence of a sophisticated and powerful indigenous Syrian empire that was involved with, and probably controlled, a vast commercial network linking much of the Middle East. -
The Presidency of Hafiz al Assad 1971-2000
Hafiz al Assad, chosen as president by popular vote in March 1971, quickly developed a plan of government. His plan was to control the Baath Party; to have socialist structure of the government and economy; have a strong military; and in case of an emergency, to develop a plan with the government to decide what to do. -
Suppression of the Muslim Brotherhood
Dissent was harshly eliminated during Assaad's presidency. The most extreme example being the brutal suppression in February 1982 of the Muslim Brotherhood, which objected to the state’s secularism and the influence of the “heretical” Alawis. -
The Presidency of Hafiz al Assad 2000-
Hafiz al Assad died in 2000 and his son, Bashar al Assad, took his place after the constitution is changed to have the mandatory minimum age of the president from 40 to 34. From the start, the younger Assad appears to be a wonderful president. He faces resistance from the old guard, however. After a brief period of relaxation known as the Damascus Spring (July 2000–February 2001), dissension is once again not tolerated in Syria, and it appears that reform in Syria will be slow. -
Tensions with US
2003 April - US threatens Damascus if they fail to make right decisions.2003 September - President Assad appoints Mohammed Naji al-Otari prime minister.2003 October - Israelis attack a Palestinian military camp near Damascus. 2004 January - President Assad visits Turkey, the first Syrian leader to do so. His trip is the end of their harsh relationship.2004 March - At least 25 people are killed in attacks between members of the Kurdish minority, in the north-east. -
Pressure over Lebanon
2005 February- Tensions with the US get more irritating after the killing of former Lebanese Prime Minister Hariri in Beirut. 2005 December - Former vice-president Abdul Halim Khaddam says that Syrian leaders threatened former Hariri’s assassination.2006 February - Danish and Norwegian people in Damascus are set on fire during a demonstration against cartoons in a Danish newspaper portraying the Muslim Prophet Muhammad.2006 September - Attack on the US settling in Damascus. Four gunmen set fi
