Syria

Discovering Syria: A Country of Rich History and Turbulent Present

Syria is a country that has captivated the world’s attention for centuries, with its rich history, diverse culture, and current struggles. Located in West Asia, it borders the Mediterranean Sea to the west, Turkey to the north, Iraq to the east and southeast, Jordan to the south, and Israel and Lebanon to the southwest. The modern state of Syria was established after centuries of Ottoman rule as a French Mandate, gaining de jure independence in 1945.

The Name and Early History

But where does the name ‘Syria’ come from? It’s derived from the 8th century BC Luwian term “Sura/i” and the ancient Greek name “Syrioi,” which originated from Assyria. The area has changed significantly over time, with classical Syria stretching inland to include parts of Iraq and being divided into provinces under the Roman Empire.

Archaeological Marvels

The Natufian culture was one of the first to become sedentary around 11th millennium BC, becoming a center of Neolithic culture. The ancient cities of Hamoukar and Emar played an important role during the late Neolithic and Bronze Age. The Kingdom of Ebla near present-day Idlib was founded around 3500 BC and traded with Mesopotamian states and other regions.

Empires and Dynasties

The region has been a battleground for various foreign empires, including the Hittite Empire, Mitanni Empire, Egyptian Empire, Middle Assyrian Empire, and Babylonian Empire. Aleppo and Damascus are among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with Yamhad dominating northern Syria for two centuries before being conquered by the Hittites around 1600 BC.

The Ba’athist Era

From the mid-20th century until its fall in late 2024, Syria was ruled by a totalitarian dictatorship under the Assad family. The regime became notorious for its human rights abuses and suppression of political dissent. In 2011, the Arab Spring led to a multi-sided civil war that has resulted in a refugee crisis and the displacement of over 6 million people.

The Civil War

In December 2024, rebel factions took control of Aleppo, prompting retaliatory airstrikes. By December 8, opposition forces captured Damascus, toppling Bashar al-Assad’s government and ending his family’s 53-year-long rule over the country. The transitional government led by Mohammed al-Bashir was formed to govern Syria until March 2025.

Economy and Resources

Syria is rich in natural resources, including petroleum and natural gas. Petroleum became Syria’s leading natural resource and chief export after 1974. The country contains four terrestrial ecoregions: Syrian xeric grasslands and shrublands, Eastern Mediterranean conifer-sclerophyllous-broadleaf forests, Southern Anatolian montane conifer and deciduous forests, and Mesopotamian shrub desert.

Political Structure

The Syrian Arab Republic was a presidential state that nominally permitted the candidacy of individuals who were not part of the Ba’ath-controlled National Progressive Front. Despite this, Syria remained a one-party state with an extensive secret police apparatus that curtailed any independent political activity.

Demographics and Culture

Syrians are an indigenous Levantine people, closely related to their neighbors. The population is approximately 18,500,000, with Syrian Arabs making up roughly 74% of the population. Assyrians and Western Aramaic-speakers also live in the country. Islam is the largest religion in Syria, making up 87% of the population, followed by Christianity (10%), Shia Muslims (3%), Alawites (10%), Druzes (3%), and other denominations.

Education and Healthcare

Education is free and compulsory for ages 6-12, with a literacy rate of 90.7% for males and 82.2% for females. Spending on healthcare accounted for 3.4% of GDP in 2010, with 14.9 physicians and 18.5 nurses per 10,000 inhabitants.

Culture and Media

Syria has a rich cultural heritage, with prominent writers such as Adonis and Nizar Qabbani contributing to Arabic literature. The Syrian music scene has produced several pan-Arab stars, including Asmahan and Farid al-Atrash. Nearly all media outlets are state-owned, controlled by the Ba’ath Party.

Cuisine

Syrian cuisine is rich and varied, influenced by Greek, Turkish, French, and Southwestern Asian dishes. Popular dishes include kibbeh, hummus, shawarma, baklava, and Arabic coffee. Drinks vary depending on the occasion, with Arabic coffee being a staple hot drink and arak an alcoholic beverage often served on special occasions.

As we look towards the future, it is clear that Syria faces significant challenges but also holds immense potential. The country’s rich history and cultural diversity make it a fascinating subject of study and exploration. Despite the turmoil, there are signs of hope as the transitional government works to rebuild and reform the nation.

The journey ahead for Syria will be long and challenging, but with resilience and determination, the country can overcome its current struggles and emerge stronger than ever before. The world watches with bated breath, hoping that this ancient land can find peace and prosperity once again.