When was the civil war in Lebanon? This question often comes up in discussions about the history of Lebanon, a small yet culturally rich country located in the Middle East. The Lebanese Civil War, a conflict that had a profound impact on the nation, lasted from 1975 to 1990.
The origins of the Lebanese Civil War can be traced back to the late 1960s, when the country was experiencing significant political and social tensions. The war was primarily driven by religious and political differences between the Maronite Christians, Sunni Muslims, Shia Muslims, and Druze. These groups had long been vying for power, and the conflict escalated as various factions sought to establish their dominance over the country.
The war began on April 13, 1975, when clashes between Christian and Muslim factions in Beirut led to widespread violence. Over the next 15 years, the conflict saw numerous battles, shifting alliances, and devastating consequences for the Lebanese population. The war was characterized by its intensity, duration, and the use of unconventional weapons, such as car bombs and rocket fire.
One of the most notable aspects of the Lebanese Civil War was the involvement of neighboring countries. Syria and Israel, in particular, played significant roles in the conflict. Syria, a predominantly Alawite country, supported the Shia and Christian factions, while Israel backed the Maronite Christians. These external interventions further complicated the situation and prolonged the war.
The war reached its peak in the early 1980s, with intense fighting in Beirut and other major cities. The conflict resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Lebanese citizens, both within the country and abroad. The war also led to the destruction of infrastructure, loss of life, and long-lasting scars on the nation’s social fabric.
The Lebanese Civil War finally came to an end on April 26, 1990, with the signing of the Taif Agreement. This peace treaty, brokered by Saudi Arabia, aimed to address the root causes of the conflict and establish a power-sharing arrangement between the various religious and political factions. The agreement also led to the withdrawal of Syrian forces from Lebanon, marking the end of their long-term presence in the country.
In conclusion, the Lebanese Civil War was a devastating conflict that raged from 1975 to 1990. This period of intense violence and political turmoil had a lasting impact on Lebanon and its people. Understanding the history of this war is crucial for anyone seeking to comprehend the complexities of Lebanon’s modern political landscape.
