Collection code: CAL2011/2
Collection title: President Bachir Gemayel Archives Collection
Biographical note
Bachir Gemayel, born on the 10th of November 1947, is a Lebanese politician and a member of the Gemayel family. He studied in elementary and secondary school at Notre-Dame College in Jamhour, then received a degree in law in 1971 and a bachelor's degree in political science in 1973 from Saint Joseph University.
He entered into politics in 1969, and tried to create a military division bearing his name in the Kataëb party. He was subsequently appointed president of the Kataëb Military Council and became a member of the Lebanese Front.
In 1976, he founded the Lebanese Forces party with a large number of Lebanese parties and national figures.
He announced the independence of Lebanon and its sovereignty after the departure of foreign armies, and launched the famous slogan “10,452 square kilometers”. He was known for his oratorical talent and his closeness to the people.
On the 25th of July 1982, he announced his candidacy for the presidency of the Republic of Lebanon and became President on the 23rd of August 1982. He was assassinated at the seat of the Kataëb Party in Ashrafieh on the 14th of September 1982.
Collection description
The collection of former president Bachir Gemayel includes:
- Personal photos and photos of Bachir Gemayel and the family
- Photos related to the Lebanese war
- Records of the meetings of the Military Council of the Lebanese Forces
- Government projects
Type
Political
Material importance
Recognized as an interlocutor by the United States, Bachir Gemayel opened the dialogue with the Arab countries and made a political and military alliance with Ariel Sharon and Rafael Eitan to drive out the Palestinians from Lebanon. He was elected President of the Lebanese Republic in August 1982. He was assassinated three weeks later, on the 14th of September 1982, by a Christian member of the PSNS (Syrian National Socialist Party) before taking his oath.
Bachir Gemayel was the founder of the Lebanese Forces, a very active party in Lebanese politics during the period 1975-1990 (Lebanese War).
Consultation method
Upon request from the Archives section of the PCLS and prior approval from Bachir Gemayel Foundation.
Property right
Bachir Gemayel Foundation
Languages used
Language 2: Arabic
Language 3: French
Language 4: English
Linear volume
17.5 m.l.
Dates range
1976 - 1982