This course was helpful in breaking the ongoing Syrian Civil War down for greater understanding. It is clear that the Syrian Civil War began as a result of a culmination of prior cycles, regime changes, and instability during the prior 100 years. It also solidified my perception and belief that the involvement of the French following the First World War planted seeds to this current conflict. You can trace the series of disagreements, movements, and thoughts from these original discussions around the French mandate in Syria. The course also reminded me of the diversity found in Syria and how this is similar to the diversity found in Iraq and how the US intervention in 2003 led to destabilization and further conflict. My hope is that Syria is able to reunite all of its diverse ethnic and religious groups into a strong and free Syria. As times goes on, this is harder to imagine, but I pray that peace talks and a reasonable resolution can be reached.
