Lebanon: Whither its' Independence?

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the political strife, civil wars and social and economic chaos that have been a part of Lebanon's history almost since the country achieved its independence in 1941. The paper also looks at past leaders of Lebanon who were assassinated, tensions between Lebanon and its neighbors, Syria and Israel, and the persistent problem created by radical Palestinians and Hezbollah members who reside with Lebanon.

From the Paper:

"In 1975, an even worse civil war broke out, and it is estimated (Brunner 808) that some 40,000 Lebanese of all religious persuasions, were killed. Again, there was an uneasy truce, with a lot of political shuffling among the politicians who wanted to, or claimed, they had the power to rule. "Civil war erupted again in 1983. From 1987 to 1990, fighting was heavy and thousands died. The government could not operate normally or sponsor elections for parliament, which was last elected in 1972. Amin Gamayel became president after Bashir Gamayel was assassinated in 1982. He served until 1988, when General Michel Aoun took control of the government. Aoun, a Maronite, ordered parliament dissolved in 1989. However, parliament did not recognize his authority and elected Rene Moawad president. He was assassinated a few days later by Aoun loyalists. Elias Hrawi was then elected president of Lebanon. Aoun was dismissed, but he continued to battle rival Christian forces" (CultureGram 2006 2). Worse yet, Beirut, the capital was bitterly dfivided, and a "Green Line"was drawn up separating the city into East and West sides, who did not want to interact with one another."

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