Yazbaki
The Yazbaki clan is a prominent Druze family in Lebanon and, alongside the Jumblatt clan, has been one of the two dominant Druze clans since the mid-18th century.[1] Both clans have historically vied for significant influence within the Lebanese political establishment.[2][3]
History
[edit]The Yazbaki faction has been led by the Arslan family,[2][3] whose leadership dates back to the 15th century.[2]
An inner-Druze conflict in Lebanon during the 18th and early 19th centuries brought the Yazbaki and Jumblatt factions to prominence in Druze political affairs in Mount Lebanon.[4][1] This division likely stems from the Druze tactic of aligning with various power contenders during crises, showcasing their adaptability (Yazbakis) and resilience (Jumblattis).[1]
During the Lebanese Civil War, the Arslan family's status declined due to their collaboration with the Kataeb Party.[3] To prevent the Arslan clan from regaining influence, the politician Walid Jumblatt offered numerous Yazbaki activists positions within his various organizations.[4]
Political Influence
[edit]Both the Yazbaki and Jumblatt clans have played crucial roles in Lebanese politics, often competing for power and influence within the Druze community and the broader political landscape of Lebanon.[2] Throughout its history, the Yazbaki leadership has generally supported the existing political establishment and the concept of "legitimacy."[2]
See Also
[edit]Academic sources
[edit]- ^ a b c Salibi, Kamal S. (1961). "Lebanon since the Crisis of 1958". The World Today. 17 (1): 32–42. ISSN 0043-9134.
- ^ a b c d e Deeb, Marius K. (1984). "Lebanon: Prospects for National Reconciliation in the Mid-1980s". Middle East Journal. 38 (2): 267–283. ISSN 0026-3141.
- ^ a b c Harik, Judith P. (July 1993). "Change and continuity among the Lebanese Druze community: the civil administration of the mountains, 1983–90". Middle Eastern Studies. 29 (3): 377–398. doi:10.1080/00263209308700957. ISSN 0026-3206.
- ^ a b Gerlach, S. (2017). Political Leadership in Lebanon and the Jumblatt Phenomenon: Tipping the Scales of Lebanese Politics. Tipping Points, 84.