Bechara El Khoury is considered one of the most prominent political figures in modern Lebanese history, as his name is associated with the era of independence and the establishment of the modern Lebanese state.
Bechara El Khoury is known as the “Father of Independence” and is regarded as one of the most prominent statesmen who contributed to solidifying the independent Lebanese entity and building the republic’s institutions in its early years.
His name remains present in the Lebanese national memory as one of the architects of independence.
Elected President in 1943
He was elected President of the Republic in 1943, becoming Lebanon’s first president after gaining independence from the French Mandate.
Born in Beirut on August 10, 1890, he studied law and practiced as a lawyer in Lebanon and Egypt.
Held several ministerial positions
In addition, he held several ministerial positions during the French Mandate period.
He headed the government more than once before assuming the presidency.
He founded the “Constitutional Bloc” in 1932, which played an important role in Lebanese political life.
Elected President of the Republic on September 21, 1943
Elected President of the Republic on September 21, 1943, he collaborated with Riad Al Solh to approve constitutional amendments that affirmed Lebanon’s independence.
He was arrested by the French Mandate authorities along with several ministers in Rachaya Citadel during the independence crisis.
Popular and political pressure led to his release and the official declaration of Lebanon’s independence on November 22, 1943.
He participated with Riad Al Solh in laying the foundations of the “National Pact” in 1943.
The Pact formed the basis of political and sectarian balance in Lebanon for many decades.
It contributed to regulating the relationship between the components of Lebanese society and solidifying the idea of an independent state.
He remained president until 1952, and his era witnessed significant political and economic developments alongside escalating internal crises.
Finally, he resigned in September 1952 following widespread political protests. He passed away in Beirut on January 11, 1964.