- Syrian Independence

In 1944, as World War II comes to an end, the Syrian Arabs demand independence from the French—further heightening tensions between Arabs and Jews. The Syrian nationalists force the French forces to leave, and the Syrian Arab Republic is established.

“The French were leaving and Syria was getting its independence. And I remember the Muslim rebels would walk around saying, “Oh, this girl’s going to be mine. That one’s going to be mine.” They even abolished speaking French or teaching French in the schools.”  – Gladys Sitt Gerszon, Episode 6

“When we passed in the street, all the young boys said, “Folostine bladna ulyahud klabna.” This translate “Palestine, Israel is ours country and the Jewish people is our dogs.” – Odette Shammah Sardar, Episode 6

(Image of young Syrians from Damascus in a truck singing national anthem after nationalist riot in Damascus.)