Member-only story

Unraveling the Entangled History: Washington's Relations with Damascus from Wilson to Eisenhower

Pat Mitchell

·7.4k Followers· Follow

Published in Syria And The USA: Washington S Relations With Damascus From Wilson To Eisenhower (Library Of International Relations)

4 min read · 1 week before

397 View Claps

38 Respond

Save

Listen

In the tapestry of international diplomacy, the relationship between the United States and Syria has unfolded over decades, marked by both cooperation and discord. The period from the presidency of Woodrow Wilson to Dwight D. Eisenhower, chronicled in the groundbreaking work "Washington Relations With Damascus From Wilson To Eisenhower," provides a comprehensive account of this intricate connection.

From Allies to Adversaries: A Shifting Landscape

The early 20th century witnessed a complex interplay between Washington and Damascus. During World War I, the United States and Syria found themselves on opposing sides, with Syria under Ottoman rule. However, the post-war mandate system, which placed Syria under French control, brought about a shift in relations. America supported the Syrian nationalist movement, recognizing Syria's right to self-determination.

Syria and the USA: Washington's Relations with Damascus from Wilson to Eisenhower (Library of International Relations)

by Sami Moubayed

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1478 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	225 pages

As Syria gained independence in 1946, hopes for a strong partnership emerged. The United States provided economic assistance and supported Syria's bid for admission to the United Nations. However, tensions mounted over issues such as the Arab-Israeli conflict and Syria's alignment with the Soviet bloc.

Eisenhower's Legacy: A Turning Point

The presidency of Dwight D. Eisenhower marked a turning point in Washington's relations with Damascus. Eisenhower's administration pursued a policy of containment towards the Soviet Union, viewing Syria as a potential strategic ally. The United States provided military and economic aid to Syria, and in 1957, the two countries established diplomatic relations.

However, Eisenhower's support for Syria was short-lived. As Syria moved closer to the Soviet Union and became increasingly involved in regional conflicts, the United States reassessed its stance. In 1962, the United States suspended aid to Syria, and relations deteriorated further.

Untangling the Diplomacy: Insights from the Archives

"Washington Relations With Damascus From Wilson To Eisenhower" draws heavily on archival research, providing a wealth of primary source material to shed light on this enigmatic relationship. The book analyzes diplomatic correspondence, intelligence reports, and presidential papers to reveal the complexities of Washington's decision-making process.

The author, a renowned historian specializing in US-Middle East relations, presents a nuanced account of the factors that shaped American policy towards Syria. The book explores the interplay of geopolitical interests, domestic politics, and the influence of key individuals.

A Historical Perspective on Contemporary Dynamics

Understanding the history of Washington's relations with Damascus is crucial for grasping the current dynamics between the two nations. The interplay of cooperation and conflict during the Wilson-Eisenhower period offers insights into the challenges and opportunities that continue to shape US-Syrian relations today.

The book provides a timely examination of the long-standing historical relationship between the United States and Syria, shedding light on the roots of contemporary challenges. It is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and anyone seeking to unravel the complexities of international diplomacy.

, "Washington Relations With Damascus From Wilson To Eisenhower" stands as an authoritative and captivating account of the multifaceted relationship between the United States and Syria. Drawing on extensive archival research, the book offers a unique perspective on the historical forces that have shaped this intricate connection, providing invaluable insights for understanding the complexities of modern-day diplomacy.