The 1958 Coup d’État in Iraq

On July 14, 1958, a significant political upheaval occurred in Iraq, marking the end of the Hashemite monarchy and the establishment of a republic. This event, often referred to as the 14 July Revolution, was a pivotal moment in Iraqi history, leading to profound changes in the country’s political landscape.

Background

The Hashemite monarchy in Iraq was established in 1921 under the auspices of the British, following the end of World War I and the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire. King Faisal I was installed as the monarch, and the Hashemite dynasty ruled Iraq for several decades. By the 1950s, however, dissatisfaction with the monarchy had grown due to various factors, including:

• Perceived Corruption and Inefficiency: The monarchy was seen by many as corrupt and out of touch with the needs of the Iraqi people.
• Economic Disparities: Despite Iraq’s oil wealth, economic benefits were not evenly distributed, leading to widespread poverty and discontent.
• Pan-Arab Nationalism: The rise of Arab nationalism, inspired by leaders like Egypt’s Gamal Abdel Nasser, fueled desires for greater Arab unity and independence from Western influence.

The Coup

The coup was orchestrated by a group of army officers known as the “Free Officers,” led by Brigadier General Abd al-Karim Qasim and Colonel Abdul Salam Arif. These officers were motivated by nationalist sentiments and a desire to establish a republic free from foreign influence.

Key Events of the Coup:

• Early Morning Assault: On the morning of July 14, 1958, the Free Officers launched their coup by seizing control of key military and communication installations in Baghdad.
• Royal Family Overthrown: The royal palace was attacked, leading to the capture and execution of King Faisal II, Crown Prince Abd al-Ilah, and Prime Minister Nuri al-Said.
• Proclamation of the Republic: Abd al-Karim Qasim declared the establishment of the Republic of Iraq, effectively ending the monarchy.

Aftermath and Consequences

The coup had significant and far-reaching consequences for Iraq and the broader Middle East:

• Political Changes: The new republic initially adopted a more neutral stance in the Cold War, distancing itself from Western alliances and seeking closer ties with the Soviet Union.
• Social Reforms: The new government implemented various social and economic reforms, including land redistribution and efforts to modernize the economy.
• Regional Impact: The coup inspired similar movements in the region, contributing to the spread of Arab nationalism and the decline of monarchical rule in the Middle East.

However, the new republic faced its own challenges, including internal divisions and power struggles. Abd al-Karim Qasim’s rule was eventually ended by another coup in 1963, highlighting the ongoing instability in Iraqi politics.

The 1958 coup remains a defining moment in Iraq’s history, symbolizing the end of colonial influence and the complex interplay of nationalism, social change, and political power in the Middle East.