Political and Social Thought in Iraq (1908–1914)

Abstract

This research studies the development of political and social thought in Iraq during the rule of the Committee of Union and Progress between 1908 and 1914. This period represents an important stage in the late Ottoman era, during which political changes influenced Iraqi society and led to the emergence of political and intellectual activities such as political parties, associations, and the role of the press in spreading awareness. The research also explains the conflict that emerged between Iraqis and the Unionists due to the policies adopted by the Committee of Union and Progress, particularly centralization and Turkification, in addition to the economic and social conditions that contributed to the growth of political and social awareness in Iraq. The study relies on the historical analytical method through examining historical events and linking them with the political, economic, and social circumstances of that period. This research adopted an analytical historical approach, studying and analyzing historical events and linking them to the political, economic, and social conditions that Iraq experienced during that period. It drew upon historical sources and studies that addressed the history of Iraq in the late Ottoman era. To achieve its objectives, the research was divided into two main sections. The first section examined the development of political thought in Iraq under the rule of the two unionists, through an analysis of political parties and associations, the conflict between Iraqis and unionists, and foreign ambitions. The second section addressed the development of social thought in Iraq, by outlining the economic situation, social transformations, and their impact on the growth of social and political awareness within Iraqi society