Product Description

This work examines the inter- and intra-sectarian relations in Lebanon against the backdrop of the conflicting pressures from Damascus and Paris, the stands of the Christians and Muslims towards the Lebanese state, and the rise of the political and economic elites in Beirut. It also analyzes Lebanese politics in the wider context of the Franco-Syrian confrontation, France's Middle East policy, the roots of Syria's hostility towards the Lebanese state and the attempts of its leaders to link it politically to Syria.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1016680 in Books
• Published on: 2000-03-31
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 310 pages

Review
" A remarkable achievement." -- Kamal Salibi
" The second, and arguably the most important, of Meir Zamir's three studies of Lebanon under the French Mandate." -- "International History Review"

Customer Reviews

For everyone interested in the history of the Middle-East
Meir Zamir managed to write an enchanting and historical book that provides detailed information about the political situation in Lebanon throughout the years from 1926 to 1939. The San Remo Conference in 1920 that proclaimed the French mandate over Lebanon and Syria became an act that would be considered with a lot of scepticism. Although the Lebanese would be priviledged by a Christian nation, since major Christian groups like the Maronites already lived there, the Muslim Syria had to face its dismemberment by both France and England. The Maronites' vision of a Grand Liban could only come into conflict with the Syrian Arab nationalism. Conflict was inevitable and thus begins Zamir's work, in providing a thorough and detailed investigation of the subsequent disputes and riots between the two nations. The presence of the French colonial administration could only provide advantages for a minor Lebanese elite. Apart from that, the French colonization only advanced the political and socio-economical disputes in Lebanon. Meir Zamir masterfully projects an objective description of this historical period, without taking any sides after having examined both Lebanese and French sources. A book that everyone should read if interested in the history of Lebanon, and the Middle-East in general.