A proconsulship “on the cheap.” General Gouraud in Syria (1919-1923)

General Henri Gouraud's proconsulship in Syria (1919–1923) revealed the tension between colonial ambitions and post-war diplomatic realities, marked by the Sykes-Picot Agreement's dominance over earlier Arab-British pacts. Despite Gouraud's reputation for maintaining cordial relations with British commanders, his mission to establish French authority in Syria was constrained by shifting political dynamics, including the League of Nations' mandate system and the rise of Arab nationalism under Faisal. The study highlights how France's post-war policy, under Millerand, prioritized collaboration with Turkish nationalists over Arab independence, leading to a Pyrrhic victory for Gouraud. His tenure underscored the transition from direct colonial rule to indirect influence, challenging the 'colonial humanism' promoted by French officials.

d’Andurain, J. (2018). Un proconsulat en trompe-l’œil. Le général Henri Gouraud en Syrie (1919-1923). Revue Historique, n° 685(1), 99–122. https://doi.org/10.3917/rhis.181.0099