Historical Context: Palestine and Lebanon Within the Context of Greater Syria
The Concept of Greater Syria: Historical Connections
Historically, Palestine and Lebanon were part of the broader region often referred to as Greater Syria, a concept that gained prominence particularly during the Ottoman Empire and earlier historical periods. The concept of Greater Syria was an ideological framework that aimed to forge a unified Arab identity across several territories, a notion that was especially significant among Arab nationalists in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The Ottoman Period: Administrative and Cultural Realm
During the Ottoman Empire's rule from 1516 to 1918, the region was administratively divided into various provinces, though these areas shared significant cultural, linguistic, and religious ties. This period saw the implementation of the Vilayets system, which reorganized the region into 29 administrative units, including the Vilayets of Aleppo, Syria, Beirut, and Jerusalem.
Global Changes and Redefined Borders
The collapse of the Ottoman Empire following World War I and the subsequent establishment of the League of Nations led to the redrawing of modern borders, officially severing the connection between these regions and creating separate states such as Lebanon and Palestine. The British and French played significant roles in this process, with deals like the Sykes-Picot Agreement and diplomatic correspondence with figures like Sharif Hussein, shaping the demarcation of contemporary Middle Eastern nations.
The Breakup of Syria and Palestine: Colonial Mandates
Post-World War I, the region saw significant political upheaval. Prince Faisal's aspirations to govern a unified Arab territory under his leadership in 1918 were challenged by the French mandate, leading to the Franco-Syrian War. This conflict culminated in the division of Syria into distinct regions, with Lebanon becoming a French mandate area, and Palestine being split into the British mandate.
The Evolution of National Identities
The idea of Greater Syria being a single national identity became increasingly irrelevant as distinct national identities emerged. The economic and political development of regions like Palestine, indebted to Zionist settlers, British influence, and oil wealth, facilitated the notion of a separate Palestinian identity. Conversely, the predominantly Christian and minority communities in Lebanon sought independence from any Arab rule, leading to a clear separation from the Syrian nationalist movement.
Today, Israel, Lebanon, and Jordan are recognized as unique geopolitical entities, disconnected from the historical concept of Greater Syria. This transformation reflects the complex interplay of historical, political, and economic factors that shaped the modern Middle East, highlighting the fluid nature of national identities and borders.