1. The Syrian Arab nationalists : independence first -- 2. The functional aspects of bilateral relations -- 3. The customs union : the cause of discord -- 4. Oil and grain -- 5. Functional separation -- 6. Military rule in Damascus and relations with Beirut
Summary
"Youssef Chaitani examines how despite the prevalence of Arab nationalism and the regression of imperial interference in the post-independence period, Syria and Lebanon became more divided, rather than more integrated. This process culminated in 1950, ending three decades of close economic co-operation between the two countries." "Drawing on previously untapped sources from the archives of Western foreign offices and the local Arab press, Chaitani uncovers the strategies and motivations of both countries' ruling elites during this period. He demonstrates that Lebanese views on the relationship with Syria was not just the product of the Christian population's de-Arabisation agenda, but also a reflection of wider frustration at Syria's tendency to manipulate the supply of commodities - particularly grain - for political leverage. Chaitani draws out the tensions between interdependence and dependency which have characterised Syrian-Lebanese relations to this day."--BOOK JACKET
Bibliography
Includes bibliographical references (pages 165-205) and index
