Syria has long been a major player on the
political scene in the Middle
East. In this book, Nicholaos Van Dam provides
readers with a
comprehensive overview of Syrian
politics and society. In particular,
he focuses attention on the regime headed by Hafiz al-Asad, which
remained in power longer than any other since Syria gained its
independence. Given the ethnic diversity within the borders of Syria,
forging and maintaining social cohesiveness within the country
challenges the ability of any national leader.Following the
1963 Ba’thist takeover of the government in Syria, the country
experience a period of upheaval, when Islamic communities become more
active in national politics and the lives of people living in the
countryside underwent noticeable changes. This book deciphers for
readers the interactions of the
political leadership with elites within
society. Further, is makes connections between and among various
minority groups, showing how their actions influenced the political
landscape of the country.Over time Asad, supported by
Alawi-dominated elites, concentrated political power in his hands. In
response to that development, Sunni opposition to his regime increased.
This book enables readers to learn how Asad became a strongman who
managed to remain in power for several decades.