The beginnings of ba‘thism between cultural project and political ideology in Michel ‘Aflaq’s view (1935-1945)

Abstract

This paper examines the genesis and development of the proto-Ba‘thist ideology in Syria during the final decade of the French Mandate. It focuses specifically on the intellectual contributions of Michel ‘Aflaq, a Greco-Orthodox Damascene teacher who, influenced by European nationalist movements, formulated a modern iteration of Pan-Arabism. Exploring the nuances of ‘Aflaq’s writings, the paper analyzes his early work (1935-1945), identifying three distinct phases. First, ‘Aflaq sought to adapt and “Arabize” Western concepts and theories, applying them to the specific political context of the Middle East. Second, he attempted to synthesize Islam with Arab nationalism. Finally, he aimed to translate this Islamo-nationalist nexus into practical action in order to achieve independence from the French Mandate.