What are the primary names used to refer to Assyrians in Syria, and what is their historical origin?

Assyrians in Syria are also known as Syriacs or Arameans. They are an ethnic and linguistic minority indigenous to Upper Mesopotamia, specifically the northeastern half of Syria. Their presence in this region dates back over 4000 years, with origins tied to ancient Akkadian-speaking and later Eastern Aramaic-speaking populations.

In which regions of Syria do Assyrians primarily reside?

The majority of Assyrians in Syria live in the Al-Hasakah Governorate, particularly in cities like Hasakah, Qamishli, Malikiyah, Ras al-Ayn, and Qahtaniyah, as well as in Tell Tamer and surrounding villages. Some Assyrians have also relocated to western cities such as Damascus.

What languages are spoken by Assyrians in Syria?

Assyrians in Syria speak Sureth, which is a Neo-Aramaic language, and also North Mesopotamian Arabic.

What are the main religious affiliations of Assyrians in Syria?

The majority of Assyrians in Syria adhere to Syriac Christianity, belonging to various churches. These include the Syriac Orthodox Church, the Assyrian Church of the East, the Chaldean Catholic Church, the Syriac Catholic Church, and the Maronite Church.

What was the estimated Assyrian population in Syria before the Syrian civil war?

Before the Syrian civil war, the estimated Assyrian population in Syria ranged between 400,000 and 877,000 individuals.

How does the Assyrian identity in Syria relate to religious affiliation?

In Syria, the Assyrian identity is often closely linked to being Christian and adhering to specific churches, particularly those within the Syriac Christian tradition. This is in contrast to some Aramean identities, which can encompass Muslim individuals as well.

What is the historical significance of the name 'Syria' in relation to Assyria?

The name 'Syria' is derived from 'Assyria'. It originated as an Indo-European corruption of the name 'Assyria' in the 9th century BC and initially referred only to Assyria itself before also being applied to the region previously known as Aramea or Eber Nari.

Which ancient Assyrian cities were located in the northeastern part of modern-day Syria?

Several important Assyrian cities were located in the northeastern region of modern-day Syria during ancient times. These include Til-Barsip, Carchemish, Guzana, Shubat-Enlil, and Dur-Katlimmu.

When did Christianity become established among Assyrians, and what is the region's significance in early Christianity?

Christianity became established among Assyrians as early as the 1st century AD. The region of Athura (part of ancient Assyria) became a significant area for the development of Eastern Christianity and Syriac literature, with the founding of the Assyrian Church of the East and the Syriac Orthodox Church there.

What happened to Assyria as a geopolitical entity after the Arab conquests?

Following the Arab Islamic Conquests in the mid-7th century AD, Assyria ceased to exist as a distinct geopolitical entity. The region subsequently experienced an influx of Arab, Turkic, and Iranic peoples, and faced periods of instability due to factors like climate shifts, over-cultivation, and invasions.

What role did Kurdish tribes play in the persecution of Assyrians during the Ottoman Empire?

During the Ottoman Empire, Kurdish tribes were reportedly responsible for many atrocities against Assyrians as part of ethnic cleansing campaigns targeting Christian populations. They also cooperated with Ottoman authorities in genocides against Armenian and Assyrian Christians in Upper Mesopotamia during the early 20th century.

When and why did many Assyrians from Hakkari settle in Syria?

Many Assyrians from the Hakkari region settled in Syria after being displaced and driven out by Ottoman Turks in the early 20th century. Later, during the 1930s and 1940s, further resettlement occurred in northeastern Syrian villages like Tel Tamer and Al-Qahtaniyah.

How did the French Mandate authorities influence the Assyrian population in Syria?

During the French Mandate of Syria, refugees from areas like Tur Abdin were settled in northeastern Syria, often alongside displaced Armenians. These Assyrians received preferential treatment from the French due to their Christian faith, which helped them form a significant part of the region's new urban elite.

What was the significance of the Simele massacre for Assyrians in Syria?

The Simele massacre in Iraq in 1933 led to an additional influx of Eastern Assyrian refugees into Syria. These refugees resettled along the Khabur River in northeastern Syria, joining existing Assyrian populations.

What was the Assyrian push for autonomy in Al-Jazira province during the French Mandate?

In 1936, Assyrian, Armenian, and Kurdish leaders pressured French authorities for autonomous status for the Al-Jazira province (now Al-Hasakah Governorate). This movement was marked by civil strife and opposition from Arab nationalists, ultimately failing due to French intervention and growing inter-communal violence.

How does the Syrian government officially designate the Assyrian population?

The Syrian Arab Nationalist Baathist government officially, though incorrectly, designates the Assyrians as Arabs, despite their distinct pre-Arab ethnic identity and long history in the region.

What is the estimated number of Assyrian villages along the Khabur River in Syria?

There are over 30 Assyrian villages situated along the Khabur River in Syria, primarily established by refugees fleeing persecution and massacres.

What challenges do young Syriacs face in Syria, according to a bishop's interview?

According to Bishop Jules Boutros of the Syriac Catholic Church, many young Syriacs are trying to leave Syria due to the ongoing war and the burden of military service, which can last for 9-10 years. The situation is particularly difficult in Kurdish-controlled areas where young men may face dual military service obligations.

What are the main religious holidays celebrated by Assyrians in Syria?

Assyrians in Syria celebrate Christian religious holidays such as Easter and Christmas, along with feasts dedicated to saints venerated within their respective churches. They also celebrate Assyrian New Year on April 1st.

What is the significance of Ha b'Nison or Kha b'Nisan for Assyrians?

Ha b'Nison, also known as Kha b'Nisan, is the Assyrian New Year, celebrated on April 1st each year according to the ancient Assyrian calendar. This celebration marks the turn of the new year and has historically faced restrictions in Syria.

Which churches are represented by Catholic Assyrians in Syria?

Catholic Assyrians in Syria are represented by the Chaldean Catholic Church and the Syriac Catholic Church. The presence of the Chaldean Catholic Church dates back to the 16th century, while the Syriac Catholic Church has four dioceses in Syria.

When was the Chaldean Catholic Eparchy of Aleppo established?

The Chaldean Catholic Eparchy of Aleppo was established in 1957 under Bishop Mar Antony Audo and is currently divided into 14 parishes.

How many dioceses does the Syriac Catholic Church have in Syria?

The Syriac Catholic Church has four dioceses in Syria: the Metropolitan Archeparchy of Damascus, the Metropolitan Archeparchy of Homs (vacant since 2013), the Archeparchy of Aleppo, and the Archeparchy of Hassaké-Nisibi.

Where is the patriarchal seat of the Syriac Orthodox Church located, and when was it transferred?

The patriarchal seat of the Syriac Orthodox Church was transferred to Damascus in 1959. The Cathedral of Saint George in Damascus serves as its headquarters.

What was the estimated number of Syriac Orthodox adherents in Syria in the mid-1970s?

In the mid-1970s, it was estimated that approximately 82,000 Syriac Orthodox individuals resided in Syria.

What percentage of Syria's population did Assyrians constitute in 2018, according to John Shoup?

In 2018, Professor John Shoup stated that Assyrians made up about 4% of Syria's total population, positioning them as the fourth-largest ethnic group in the country.

What is the name of the oldest Assyrian political party in Syria, and when was it founded?

The oldest Assyrian political party in Syria is the Assyrian Democratic Organization (ADO), commonly known as 'Mtakasto'. It was founded in 1957.

Who is the current leader of the Assyrian Democratic Organization (ADO), and what happened to him?

Gabriel Moushe Gawrieh is the current leader of the Assyrian Democratic Organization (ADO). He was detained by the Syrian government and imprisoned for two years, being released in June 2016.

What are the main Assyrian militias formed in response to the Syrian Civil War?

In response to the Syrian Civil War, Assyrians have formed several military forces to protect their communities. These include the Gozarto Protection Force (GPF), the Syriac Military Council (MFS), the Sutoro (police wing of MFS), and the Khabour Guards.

Which Syrian government entity is the Gozarto Protection Force (GPF) aligned with?

The Gozarto Protection Force (GPF), also known as Sootoro, is a militia formed in 2012 that is aligned with the Syrian Government. It primarily consists of Assyrians, with a smaller number of Armenians.

What ideology does the Syriac Military Council (MFS) follow, and which larger force is it part of?

The Syriac Military Council (MFS) follows the Dawronoye ideology and is a component of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), operating under the Syriac Union Party.

What is the role of Sutoro within the Assyrian communities in northeast Syria?

Sutoro serves as the police wing of the Syriac Military Council. Active since 2012, Sutoro patrols Assyrian communities in northeast Syria and collaborates with the Asayish (the security wing of the SDF) to maintain regional safety.

What happened during the clashes between Sootoro forces and Asayish in Qamishli in early 2016?

In early 2016, Sootoro forces established checkpoints in Assyrian-controlled districts of Qamishli. When Asayish members demanded their dismantling and were refused, Asayish opened fire, resulting in casualties on both sides.

What impact did ISIL's occupation have on Assyrians in Raqqa?

Due to ISIL's occupation, by November 2014, only 23 Assyrian and Armenian families remained in Raqqa. ISIL militants reportedly burned Christian bibles and holy books in the city.

How many Assyrians were abducted by ISIL from the Khabur valley in February 2015, and what were the demographics of the captives?

On February 23, 2015, ISIL abducted 232 Assyrians from villages near Tell Tamer in the Khabur valley. Among those kidnapped, 51 were children and 84 were women.

What was the ransom demand for the Assyrian hostages kidnapped by ISIL, and what was their eventual fate?

ISIL reportedly demanded $22 million, or approximately $100,000 per person, for the release of the Assyrian hostages. While three were executed in a video, the remaining 42 hostages were freed in early 2016 after an undisclosed ransom was paid, mediated by the Assyrian Church of the East.

What occurred during the Wusta bombings in Qamishli on December 30, 2015?

On December 30, 2015, three blasts struck restaurants in the Assyrian district of Wusta in Qamishli, resulting in 16 deaths and 30 injuries. An ISIL-affiliated news agency claimed responsibility for the attacks, leading the Gozarto Protection Forces to establish checkpoints for community safety.

How has the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) impacted Assyrian inclusion?

The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) has led to greater inclusion of Assyrians in regional governance, partly due to the decrease in political repression and the involvement of Assyrian political and military groups. The Syriac Union Party (SUP) is part of the governing coalition.

What steps have been taken to promote the Syriac language in schools within the AANES?

Since the 2016/17 academic year, Syriac has been taught in public schools in the AANES region. The 'Ourhi Centre' in Qamishli was established by the Assyrian community to train teachers for this purpose, making Syriac an official language alongside Kurdish and Arabic.

What accusations have been made against the Kurdish-led administration regarding Assyrian schools?

The Kurdish-led administration in the region has been accused of closing down 14 Assyrian schools that refused to adopt its curriculum. Many Assyrians reject this curriculum, viewing it as an attempt to impose Kurdish nationalist ideology and noting that it lacks external accreditation compared to the Syrian government's curriculum.

What happened to David Jendo, the leader of the Khabur Guards, in April 2015?

David Jendo, the leader of the Khabur Guards, was assassinated in April 2015 after being kidnapped along with commander Elias Nasser. They were reportedly lured to a meeting with YPG leadership, shot, and Jendo died immediately while Nasser was severely wounded. Jendo had previously spoken out against the YPG's looting of Assyrian homes.

What concerns did Assyrian and Armenian organizations raise in November 2015 regarding Kurdish authorities?

In November 2015, sixteen Assyrian and Armenian civic and church organizations issued a joint statement protesting Kurdish expropriation of private property. They accused the PYD (Democratic Union Party) of human rights violations, including property confiscation, illegal military conscription, and interference with church school curricula.

What allegations have been made regarding the silencing of Assyrian critics by Kurdish authorities?

It has been alleged that Kurdish authorities use Assyrian proxy forces, such as Sutoro, to intimidate and silence Assyrian critics. An example cited is the arrest of writer Souleman Yousph in September 2018 after he criticized the closure of Assyrian schools and an assault on another writer.

What is the historical origin of the term 'Assyrian' as it relates to the region of Syria?

The term 'Syria' itself is believed to be derived from 'Assyria', originating as an Indo-European corruption of the name in the 9th century BC. Initially, 'Syria' referred specifically to Assyria before its application expanded to other regions.

What ancient Mesopotamian empires controlled territory that is now part of Syria?

During the Old Assyrian Empire (2000–1750 BC), Middle Assyrian Empire (1365–1020 BC), and Neo-Assyrian Empire (911–599 BC), much or all of modern-day Syria was under Assyrian rule. The northeastern part of the land was an integral part of Assyria proper.

What was the geopolitical status of Assyria during the Parthian and Sassanid Empires?

During the Parthian Empire (150 BC-224 AD) and the early Sassanid Empire (224-650 AD), when the land was renamed Assuristan, Neo-Assyrian kingdoms emerged. Parts of northeast Syria became integrated into the Neo-Assyrian state of Osroene until the mid-3rd century AD.

What historical events led to Assyrians resettling in northeastern Syrian villages in the 1930s and 1940s?

Following displacement by Ottoman Turks in the early 20th century, many Assyrians from Hakkari settled in Syria. Further resettlement occurred in the 1930s and 1940s in northeastern Syrian governorates like Al-Hasakah, in villages such as Tel Tamer and Al-Qahtaniyah.

What role did the Assyrian Democratic Organization (ADO) play in Syrian politics?

The Assyrian Democratic Organization (ADO), founded in 1957, is the oldest Assyrian political party in Syria. Its principles focus on unity ('huyodo/khoyada') and it gained influence among Assyrian youth. Its leader, Gabriel Moushe Gawrieh, was imprisoned by the Syrian government for two years.

How did the Syriac Military Council (MFS) and its female brigade, the Bethnahrain Women's Protection Forces, operate?

The Syriac Military Council (MFS) is a militia aligned with the Dawronoye ideology and part of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). They have participated in offensives alongside the YPG. The Bethnahrain Women's Protection Forces serve as the female contingent of the MFS, responsible for guarding Assyrian communities in northeast Syria.

What happened to Assyrian Christians in Raqqa during ISIL occupation?

During ISIL's occupation of Raqqa, the Assyrian Christian population drastically decreased, with only 23 families remaining by November 2014. ISIL militants were reported to have burned Christian bibles and holy books in the city.

What was the outcome of the trial for the attackers of David Jendo and Elias Nasser?

Following the assassination of David Jendo and the wounding of Elias Nasser in April 2015, the alleged attackers were arrested and tried in a regional court. Two individuals received 20-year prison sentences, while two others received sentences of 4 and 1 year, respectively.

Assyrians In Syria Wiki: Syria's Ancient Echoes: The Assyrian Presence

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Community Overview

Indigenous Roots

Assyrians in Syria, also referred to as Syriacs or Arameans, represent an ethnic and linguistic minority indigenous to Upper Mesopotamia. Their historical presence in the northeastern region of Syria dates back over 4000 years, intertwined with the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia.

Geographic Distribution

The primary concentration of Assyrians in Syria is within the Al-Hasakah Governorate, particularly in cities like Hasakah, Qamishli, and Tell Tamer, along with surrounding villages. Significant populations have also migrated to major urban centers such as Damascus and Homs.

Shared Heritage

Syrian Assyrians share a common ethnic identity, linguistic heritage (Sureth and North Mesopotamian Arabic), cultural traditions, and religious affiliations with Assyrians in neighboring countries (Turkey, Iraq, Iran) and the global Assyrian diaspora.

Historical Trajectory

Ancient Foundations

The region encompassing modern-day Syria was historically integral to the Assyrian empires (Old, Middle, and Neo-Assyrian). Assyrian settlement in northeastern Syria dates back to the 2nd millennium BC, with significant ancient cities like Til-Barsip and Carchemish located in the area.

Early Christianity

Christianity became established among Assyrians by the 1st century AD. The region served as a cradle for Eastern Christianity and Syriac literature, with the founding of the Assyrian Church of the East and the Syriac Orthodox Church originating here.

Medieval and Modern Shifts

Following the Arab conquests, Assyria transitioned geo-politically. Subsequent centuries saw periods of instability, nomadic incursions, and later, ethnic cleansing campaigns by the Ottoman Empire, which led to displacement and migration. Many Assyrians settled in northeastern Syria during the early 20th century, particularly after fleeing persecution in Iraq.

Middle Ages: Post-Islamic conquest, gradual Arab and Turkic influx, population exoduses due to invasions and climate shifts.
Early Modern Period: Ottoman Empire era, Kurdish tribal involvement in atrocities against Assyrians, leading to displacement.
20th Century: Settlement in northeastern Syrian villages like Tell Tamer and Qamishli, establishment of the Assyrian Democratic Organization.

Cultural Identity

Linguistic Heritage

The primary language spoken by Assyrians in Syria is Sureth (a Northeastern Neo-Aramaic dialect). Many also speak North Mesopotamian Arabic. The preservation and teaching of Syriac (Aramaic) in schools have become a significant cultural focus.

Traditions and Celebrations

Assyrians observe religious holidays such as Easter and Christmas. A key cultural celebration is the Assyrian New Year, "Kha b'Nisan," observed on April 1st, marking the turn of the ancient Assyrian calendar. Historically, these celebrations faced restrictions.

Artistic Expressions

Assyrian culture encompasses distinct musical traditions, folk dances like the Khigga, and a rich history of sculpture. The community also maintains unique culinary practices and wedding traditions.

Religious Affiliations

Syriac Christianity

The majority of Assyrians in Syria adhere to various branches of Syriac Christianity, reflecting a deep historical connection to the region's Christian heritage. These affiliations are central to their identity.

Catholic Churches

Within the Catholic tradition, Syrian Assyrians are represented by the Chaldean Catholic Church and the Syriac Catholic Church. The Chaldean presence dates back centuries, while the Syriac Catholic Church has multiple dioceses within Syria.

Orthodox Churches

The Syriac Orthodox Church holds significant importance, with its patriarchal seat located in Damascus. Key archbishoprics are situated across Syria, serving the spiritual needs of the community.

Demographic Profile

Population Estimates

Prior to the Syrian civil war, estimates for the Assyrian population in Syria ranged between 400,000 and 877,000. Some academic sources suggest they constituted approximately 4% of the total population, making them the fourth-largest ethnic group.

Settlement Patterns

The majority reside in the northeastern Al-Hasakah Governorate, with established villages along the Khabur River. Migration to urban centers like Damascus and Aleppo has also occurred, reflecting broader demographic trends within Syria.

Political Engagement

Key Organizations

The Assyrian Democratic Organization (ADO), known as "Mtakasto," founded in 1957, is the oldest Assyrian political party in Syria. Other groups like the Syriac Union Party (SUP) and the Assyrian Democratic Party are also active, advocating for Assyrian rights and representation.

Governance and Autonomy

Assyrian political movements have sought greater inclusion and autonomous status within regions like Al-Jazira. Their participation in the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria reflects efforts to secure representation and cultural rights.

Impact of Conflict

Community Defense

During the Syrian Civil War, Assyrians formed militias such as the Gozarto Protection Force (Sootoro) and the Syriac Military Council (MFS) to protect their communities. These groups have aligned with various political factions, including the Syrian Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

Persecution and Displacement

The community has faced significant challenges, including persecution by groups like ISIL, which led to abductions and violence. Clashes with Kurdish forces and disputes over governance, curriculum, and property rights have also impacted Assyrian communities.

ISIL abductions in the Khabur valley (2015).
Clashes between Sootoro and Kurdish Asayish forces.
Protests against Kurdish authorities regarding school curricula and property expropriation.
Assassination of Khabur Guards leader David Jendo.
Bombings in Qamishli's Assyrian district (2015).

Emigration Trends

The ongoing conflict and economic pressures have led many young Assyrians to seek emigration, raising concerns about the future demographic and cultural vitality of the community within Syria.

Further Exploration

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References

Joan A. Argenter, R. McKenna Brown 2004 199" On the Margins of Nations: Endangered Languages and Linguistic Rights, Foundation for Endangered Languages. Eds:Joan A. Argenter, R. McKenna Brown

Dodge, Bayard, "The Settlement of the Assyrians on the Khabur," Royal Central Asian Society Journal, July 1940, pp. 301-320.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Assyrians in Syria Wikipedia page

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This document has been generated by an AI, drawing exclusively from the provided source material. It is intended for academic and informational purposes, aiming to present complex information in an accessible format for higher education students. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the source, the content is a synthesized interpretation and should be cross-referenced with primary academic sources for rigorous research.

This is not an exhaustive historical or sociological treatise. The information presented does not substitute for in-depth scholarly research or expert analysis. Users are encouraged to consult peer-reviewed journals, academic books, and primary historical documents for a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any interpretations or actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Syria's Ancient Echoes

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Community Overview 🏛️

🌍 Indigenous Roots

📍 Geographic Distribution

🔗 Shared Heritage

Historical Trajectory ⏳

🏺 Ancient Foundations

✝️ Early Christianity

⚔️ Medieval and Modern Shifts

Cultural Identity 🎭

🗣️ Linguistic Heritage

🎉 Traditions and Celebrations

🎶 Artistic Expressions

Religious Affiliations ✝️

⛪ Syriac Christianity

🇻🇦 Catholic Churches

☦️ Orthodox Churches

Demographic Profile 📊

🔢 Population Estimates

🏘️ Settlement Patterns

Political Engagement 🗳️

🏛️ Key Organizations

⚖️ Governance and Autonomy

Impact of Conflict ⚔️

🛡️ Community Defense

😥 Persecution and Displacement

emigration Emigration Trends

Further Exploration 🔗

📚 Related Topics

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Community Overview

Indigenous Roots

Geographic Distribution

Shared Heritage

Historical Trajectory

Ancient Foundations

Early Christianity

Medieval and Modern Shifts

Cultural Identity

Linguistic Heritage

Traditions and Celebrations

Artistic Expressions

Religious Affiliations

Syriac Christianity

Catholic Churches

Orthodox Churches

Demographic Profile

Population Estimates

Settlement Patterns

Political Engagement

Key Organizations

Governance and Autonomy

Impact of Conflict

Community Defense

Persecution and Displacement

Emigration Trends

Further Exploration

Related Topics

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice