Jamil Mardam Bey

Jamil Mardam Bey

Syrian politician, two-time Prime Minister of Syria
Country: Syria

Content:
  1. Syrian Statesman and Two-Time Prime Minister
  2. Early Life and Education
  3. Anti-Ottoman Struggle
  4. Post-War Activities
  5. Foundation of the National Bloc
  6. Premiership and Legacy

Syrian Statesman and Two-Time Prime Minister

Haqqi al-Azm was a prominent Syrian politician who served as Prime Minister twice, from 1936 to 1939 and again from 1946 to 1948.

Early Life and Education

Al-Azm was born in Damascus in 1864. He studied law and political science in Paris, where he was involved in the Arab nationalist movement. In 1911, he co-founded the al-Fatah al-Arabi Society, which advocated for Arab independence.

Anti-Ottoman Struggle

During World War I, al-Azm played a role in the Arab Revolt against Ottoman rule. He participated in the rebellion led by Sharif Hussein bin Ali, and was subsequently sentenced to death by the Ottomans. However, he managed to escape and remained in hiding.

Post-War Activities

After the war, al-Azm returned to Syria and served as a delegate to the Paris Peace Conference on behalf of King Faisal I. When French authorities arrested and sentenced him to death in 1920, he once again escaped and sought refuge in Jerusalem.

Foundation of the National Bloc

In 1927, al-Azm was instrumental in founding the National Bloc, a coalition of nationalist groups that opposed French rule in Syria. He served as the Bloc's president until its dissolution in 1936.

Premiership and Legacy

Al-Azm's tenure as Prime Minister was marked by his efforts to negotiate with France for Syria's independence. He advocated for a constitutional monarchy and for the adoption of a modern legal system. After his second term as Prime Minister, al-Azm continued to play a significant role in Syrian politics until his death in Damascus in 1955.

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