The execution of Syrian and Lebanese intellectuals: an Ottoman tragedy

The execution of Syrian and Lebanese intellectuals: an Ottoman tragedy

Amid the chaotic atmosphere of the First World War, the harsh policies imposed by the Ottoman Empire in its Syrian provinces led to the systematic targeting of Arab nationalist intellectuals. In 1915 and 1916, particularly during the mass executions carried out on 6 May 1916, in Damascus and Beirut, deep scars were left in the history of Syria and Lebanon. These executions were carried out under the leadership of Cemal Pasha, commander of the Fo…