Al Fusaic

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Lebanon’s Political Economy: An Interactive Timeline

Al Fusaic

By Ruhama Bekele

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This two-page timeline is interactive (all of the hyperlinks are active). Scroll through the 12 different nodes of Lebanon’s Political Economy).

Lebanon's tumultuous history is marked by a series of significant events that have shaped its political landscape and societal fabric. From the establishment of the National Pact in 1943, which laid the groundwork for a sectarian power-sharing system, to the outbreak of the Lebanese Civil War in 1975, the country has grappled with deep-rooted divisions fueled by religious affiliations and external influences. The enduring impact of these events continues to resonate, creating a complex backdrop against which Lebanon navigates its ongoing challenges.

As Lebanon faced numerous crises throughout the decades, including foreign invasions, economic collapse, and widespread protests, the resilience of its people has emerged as a defining characteristic. Key moments, such as the Israeli invasion in 1982, the civil war's conclusion in 1990, and the Beirut port explosion in 2020, serve as reminders of the fragility of peace and the pressing need for reform. These events illustrate how Lebanon's history is a constant struggle between hope for a brighter future and the weight of its past.

In recent years, tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated significantly, marked by exchanges of Israeli airstrikes on Beirut and Hezbollah rockets targeting northern Israel. This cycle of violence raises the specter of a potential regional war, exacerbated by Israel's unlawful airstrikes against Hezbollah operatives. The ramifications of these hostilities ripple throughout Lebanon, further complicating an already precarious situation as the country grapples with internal strife and a faltering economy. This timeline highlights critical milestones in Lebanon’s journey, illustrating the interplay between political mismanagement, social unrest, and the quest for justice and stability in a country rich in history yet fraught with turmoil.

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