The first signs of the emergence of nationalism were the holding of meetings, circles, gatherings, and the formation of parties and organizations in various places. Most of these associations operated in a covert and subtle manner, focusing primarily on attracting members, spreading their propaganda, and publishing magazines and newspapers among different segments of the population. In this section, we introduce some of the Arab nationalist parties and organizations. Although it is not possible to identify all the parties, associations, and organizations related to Arab nationalism due to their large number, we still aim to present the most prominent ones:
1. The Union of Arab States: Established under the direct supervision of England, this union sought to gain complete control over all Arabs and to prevent the efforts of many reformers who were attempting to restore Islamic unity. The Union of Arab States is composed of a group of countries in Southwest Asia, North Africa, and Northwest Africa. It was founded on March 22, 1945, with the participation of six members and currently includes 23 Arab countries. The foundation stone of this organization was laid at the suggestion of British Prime Minister Anthony Eden after World War II.
2. The Baath Party: This party is a nationalist organization founded by the fervent Christian nationalist Michel Aflaq in Syria and Iraq. Following World War I, the Baath Party aimed to create an empire of Arab-speaking nations by emphasizing Arab ethnicity. Michel Aflaq, a Christian Arab, propelled this party to become the largest in the Arab world, promoting Arab nationalism under the concept of “socialism.” The Baath Party strongly advocates for Arab nationalism, asserting that it represents a sacred bond between the individual and the nation. The party’s vision of nationalism encompasses the will of the Arab nation to be free, united, and given the opportunity to explore its historical identity.
3. Qahtani Organization: Founded in 1909, one of its notable founders is Khalil Hamada. In describing the organization’s purpose, Sheikh Khalid bin Ibrahim mentions: “Among the founders of the Qahtani Organization are Khalil Pasha Hamada, Minister of Endowments; Abdul Hamid Al-Zahrawi; Aziz Ali Masri Bakbashi; and others.” He further explains that the large number of founders was due to the organization’s secretive programs and structure, allowing anyone to associate themselves without formal permission.
4. Arab Youth Association (also referred to as the “Young Arab Association” in some articles): This secretive association was established by Arab youth studying in Paris in 1911 and later moved its activities to Beirut, where it operated clandestinely until 1918.
5. The Ahd Organization: Founded in 1913 by Aziz Ali al-Masri, this clandestine political organization included prominent Arab officers, predominantly from Iraq, although it also had Turkish members.
In the early 20th century, Arab nationalism began to penetrate the educated classes in Syria, particularly among army officers, inspiring the formation of patriotic associations. These included the Young Arab Association (Jamiyah al-Arabiyah al-Fatat), which included Prince Faisal, son of Sharif Hussein Makki, King of the Hejaz, and the Ahd Association, comprising Arab officers. Both were among the earliest secret groups and connected with patriots from abroad, including Iraqi army officers, Syrian immigrants in Egypt and America, and distinguished figures like Sharif Hussein.
6. Beirut Secret Society: Established in 1875 by Arabic-speaking students at the Syrian American College, all of whom were Christians, this society recognized the importance of Muslim participation and actively encouraged Muslim students to join.
7. Arts and Crafts Association: Created in 1847, this association was founded by American missionary delegations in Beirut.
8. Oriental Association.
9. Syrian Scientific Association.
10. Beirut Reform Association.
Along with the establishment of parties, organizations, and associations, colonialists fostered a sense of nationalism among the populace, promoting discord and division through archaeology. This strategy compelled Muslim individuals and nations to focus on local origins and heritage rather than on Islam and their Muslim identity, thereby reviving nationalism and enabling its spread.
The author of the book Intellectual War notes, “The Crusaders, along with the aforementioned parties and organizations, formed archaeological associations and invested substantial funds to support their objectives. For example, a Jewish capitalist pays ten million dollars to establish a museum of pharaoh artifacts and create an archaeology school alongside it.”
It is crucial to remember that these associations and organizations played a vital role in disseminating the idea of Arab nationalism. As Sheikh Abdullah Izzam (MAPH) stated, “At that time, these associations were a refuge for those who criticized Islam or were eager for power and domination; consequently, people turned to these organizations.”
“The emergence of secret and public organizations among the population significantly impacted the shift towards Arab nationalism.”
While the number of these associations is extensive, we have focused on the most notable. Those seeking further information on this topic can refer to the book («الجمعیات القومیة العربیة وموقفها من الإسلام والمسلمین فی القرن الرابع عشر الهجری») Al-Jum’iyat al-Qawmiyyah al-Arabiyyah wa’maqfa min al-Islam wa’l-Muslimin fi al-Qarn ra’eb al-Ashr al-Hijri by Khalid ibn Ibrahim ibn Abdullah, in which all these organizations are described in detail.
