FLOSSI TO ASSAD, IT’S TIME TO HIT THE ROAD
The history of the Alawites (also known as Nusayris) is deeply tied to their origins as a distinct religious sect within Shia Islam, their marginalization under successive empires, and their eventual rise to prominence in modern-day Syria. Here’s a detailed overview:
Early History and Origins
Emergence in the 9th Century:
The Alawite sect emerged around the 9th century in what is now modern-day Iraq and Syria.
The sect's name, Nusayris, is derived from Muhammad ibn Nusayr, a disciple of the 10th Shia Imam, Ali al-Hadi (828–868). He is believed to have played a pivotal role in shaping Alawite theology.
Theological Foundations:
Alawites are a branch of Shia Islam, venerating Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad. However, their beliefs diverged significantly, emphasizing esotericism, mysticism, and elements from other religious traditions.
Their theology includes beliefs in divine emanations, reincarnation, and the veneration of a divine triad: Ali, Muhammad, and Salman the Persian.
Spread to Syria:
The sect migrated from Iraq to the mountainous regions of western Syria to escape persecution by Sunni Muslim rulers during the Abbasid Caliphate.
Medieval History
Persecution and Isolation:
Under the Abbasids, and later the Ottoman Empire, Alawites were often viewed as heretics by Sunni Muslim authorities. This led to widespread discrimination and marginalization.
To protect themselves, Alawites retreated to the rugged mountains of the Latakia region in modern-day Syria, where they lived in isolated communities.
Ottoman Era (1516–1918)
Subjugation under Ottoman Rule:
During the Ottoman Empire, Alawites were marginalized as second-class citizens and forced into servitude by Sunni landlords in the coastal regions.
The Ottomans, like their predecessors, regarded Alawites as heretics and made little effort to integrate them into the broader Islamic society.
French Mandate Period (1920–1946)
Empowerment by the French:
After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, the French gained control of Syria under the League of Nations Mandate.
The French used a divide-and-rule strategy, favoring minority groups, including Alawites, to weaken Sunni Arab nationalism.
Alawites were heavily recruited into the military and administrative roles, creating new opportunities for upward mobility.
Creation of Alawite State:
In 1922, the French established the State of the Alawites as part of their mandate. While it was later integrated into modern Syria, this period marked the first time Alawites gained political significance.
Rise to Power in Modern Syria
Post-Independence Marginalization (1946–1963):
After Syria gained independence in 1946, Sunni elites dominated the political and economic spheres, leaving Alawites marginalized once again.
However, the military, which had grown in importance during the French Mandate, remained a pathway for Alawite advancement.
Ba'athist Coup and Alawite Ascendancy (1963–1970):
The Ba'ath Party, a secular Arab nationalist movement, seized power in Syria in 1963. Alawite officers gained significant influence within the party and the military.
In 1970, Hafez al-Assad, an Alawite Air Force officer, orchestrated a coup, becoming Syria’s president and consolidating Alawite dominance.
Under Hafez al-Assad and Bashar al-Assad
Hafez al-Assad (1971–2000):
Hafez al-Assad solidified Alawite control over Syria's political, military, and intelligence institutions.
His regime emphasized secularism and Arab nationalism to unify the country, while ensuring the Alawite community retained significant power.
Bashar al-Assad (2000–present):
Bashar al-Assad succeeded his father in 2000. His regime faced growing opposition, culminating in the Syrian Civil War (2011–present).
During the war, the Assad regime has relied heavily on the Alawite community for support, deepening sectarian divides.
Modern Context
Alawite Role in the Syrian Civil War:
The civil war has exacerbated sectarian tensions between Alawites, who largely back the Assad regime, and the Sunni Muslim majority.
Demographics and Influence:
Alawites make up about 10–15% of Syria’s population but hold disproportionate political and military power.
The community's reliance on the Assad regime has made them vulnerable to backlash in a post-Assad future.
Key Historical Themes
Marginalization and Persecution:
Alawites endured centuries of discrimination under Sunni-dominated empires, shaping their insular and secretive identity.
Political Ascendancy:
The French Mandate and subsequent military influence allowed Alawites to rise from marginalization to dominance in modern Syria.
