The Assad regime's rise to power was deeply intertwined with sectarian divisions, particularly between Sunni and Alawite factions within the military.
Hafez al-Assad's strategy of eliminating rivals was systematic and brutal, establishing a legacy of violence that continued under his son, Bashar al-Assad.
The Hama massacre remains a significant event in Syrian history, symbolizing the regime's willingness to use extreme violence to maintain control.
Rifaat al-Assad's attempts to usurp power highlight the internal power struggles within the Assad family and the regime.
After more than 50 years, the Syrian people have overthrown the Assad regime, which was established through a military coup led by the Baath Party 60 years ago. Hafez al-Assad's rule was marked by systematic violence and cruelty, which he passed on to his son. The Baath Party, initially a small group, grew rapidly through family and sectarian ties, leading to significant sectarian divisions within the military and government. The coup of February 23, 1966, led by Salah Jadid and Hafez al-Assad, marked a turning point, establishing Alawite dominance in the military and state. Hafez al-Assad's consolidation of power involved eliminating rivals, including the execution of Salim Hatoum and the arrest of Salah Jadid, ultimately leading to his declaration as the first Alawite president of Syria in 1970. His oppressive regime was characterized by brutal crackdowns on dissent, notably the Hama massacre in 1982, which left around 40,000 dead. Hafez's brother, Rifaat al-Assad, played a significant role in the regime's violence and attempted to seize power during Hafez's health crisis in 1983, but ultimately retreated to exile.
