Faisal II of Iraq
Faisal II (Arabic: الملك فيصل الثاني, romanized: al-Malik Fayṣal al-thānī; 2 May 1935 – 14 July 1958) was the last King of Iraq. He reigned from 4 April 1939 until his tragic death during the 1958 Iraqi coup d'état, also known as the 14 July Revolution, which led to the abolition of the Iraqi monarchy and the establishment of a republic.
Early Life
Faisal II was born to King Ghazi of Iraq and Queen Aliya bint Ali in Baghdad. His father, King Ghazi, was known for his fervent Arab nationalism and opposition to British influence in Iraq. Unfortunately, King Ghazi passed away in a car accident in 1939, when Faisal II was only three years old. This tragic event led to Faisal's ascension to the throne as a young child.
Regency
Due to Faisal II's young age, a regency was established under the leadership of his uncle, Abd al-Ilah. Abd al-Ilah served as the regent until Faisal II reached the age of 18 in 1953. During this period, Iraq experienced significant political and social changes, influenced by both internal dynamics and external pressures from the British Empire and regional Arab nationalist movements.
Reign
Upon reaching maturity, Faisal II officially took on the responsibilities of kingship. His reign was marked by efforts to modernize Iraq and improve its infrastructure and education system. Faisal II also sought to navigate the complex regional politics of the Middle East, establishing alliances and fostering relationships with neighboring countries.
The Arab Federation
One of the most notable political endeavors of King Faisal II was the formation of the Arab Federation in 1958 with his cousin, King Hussein of Jordan. This confederation aimed to strengthen the political and economic ties between the Hashemite kingdoms of Iraq and Jordan, promoting unity and cooperation in the face of growing regional tensions.
The 1958 Iraqi Coup d'État
The political landscape in Iraq during Faisal II's reign was tumultuous, with increasing dissatisfaction among various factions within the country. On 14 July 1958, a group of army officers, led by Brigadier General Abdul Karim Qasim and Colonel Abdul Salam Arif, orchestrated a coup d'état that overthrew the monarchy. The revolution resulted in the brutal assassination of King Faisal II, his family members, and key government officials, marking a violent end to the Hashemite rule in Iraq.
Legacy
King Faisal II's death marked the end of the Hashemite monarchy in Iraq, leading to the establishment of the Iraqi Republic. The events of 1958 and the subsequent changes in Iraq's political structure have had lasting impacts on the country's history and its relations with the broader Arab world.