1925-27. 2001. The Encyclopedia of World History

The Encyclopedia of World History. 2001.


1925–27

THE GREAT REVOLT. An uprising broke out in July 1925 among Druze tribes in Jabal Druze, a mountainous area southeast of Damascus. The main aims of the revolt were the appointment of a Druze governor for the region, the evacuation of the French garrison, and permission for the Druze to remain armed. The revolt quickly gained the support of nationalist politicians and spread to other parts of southern Syria, including the cities of Damascus and Hama. Although the insurrection was put down by early 1927, it had a lasting effect on French policy, which became less high-handed and more conciliatory. The French administration henceforth sought the cooperation of Syrian notables and rewarded them with a share of the colonial government.	1

Oct. 14

Uprising in Damascus, which forced the French military to withdraw from the city. The French returned on Oct. 18 and staged a two-day attack on the city using artillery and aircraft. The disturbances in Damascus were the first signs of links between the Druze rebels and urban politicians.	2

Nov. 6

Henri de Jouvenel became the new high commissioner. He immediately abandoned the unpopular policies of his predecessor, who was blamed for inciting the Great Revolt.	3


The Encyclopedia of World History, Sixth edition. Peter N. Stearns, general editor. Copyright © 2001 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Maps by Mary Reilly, copyright © 2001 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.