{"product_id":"it-started-in-damascus","title":"It Started in Damascus","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA gripping social and political chronicle of Syria before and after revolution, as the global shockwaves continue rippling.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor decades, Syrians longed for an ordinary life. When Bashar Assad was unexpectedly toppled in December 2024, they celebrated the fall of a dynastic dictatorship. But as they strive for post-Assad justice, they must grapple with the legacy of a freedom fight begun many years before.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen Hafez Assad's violent rule ended in 2000, many believed his son heralded change; but Bashar betrayed those hopes. When Syrians finally rose up in 2011, they were mercilessly crushed by his regime--backed by Russia and Iran--and abandoned by the Western powers claiming to support them. Now, with a new power in Damascus, can the people forge the new Syria they've dreamed of for a quarter-century? \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRime Allaf, Damascene herself, narrates a struggle for dignity that has shaken the world. With expert analysis, poignant storytelling and a deep personal connection with the region, she paints an intimate portrait of a devastated society, and of a resilient people determined to find peace. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"C Hurst \u0026 Co Publishers Ltd","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54877229285720,"sku":"9781805264118","price":25.99,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0278\/1295\/4195\/files\/9781805264118.jpg?v=1770521417","url":"https:\/\/agendabookshop.com\/products\/it-started-in-damascus","provider":"Agenda Bookshop","version":"1.0","type":"link"}