Abdel Rahman al-Kawakibi

A Syrian philosopher and nationalist who inspired Arab intellectual awakening through critiques of Ottoman governance.

Abdel Rahman al-Kawakibi (1849–1902) was a Syrian intellectual whose writings ignited Arab nationalist thought in the late 19th century. Born in Urfa, Ottoman Syria (now Turkey), he criticized the corruption and stagnation of the Ottoman Empire in works like Um al-Qura (Mother of the Towns). His essays argued for Arab cultural and political independence, influencing movements like the Young Turks. Exiled to Egypt, he founded the Al-Muayyad newspaper, advocating for secular governance and education reform. His ideas laid groundwork for modern Arab nationalism. Explore his legacy at Wikipedia.