Saddam Hussein's Rise to Power

What were the reasons for Saddam's rise to power?

There were a number of reasons why Saddam Hussein was able to rise to complete power in Iraq by 1979, including an effective powerbase, repression and control, widespread popularity and the use of propaganda.

What was Saddam's powerbase?

There were 4 important ways Saddam's powerbase helped his rise to power.

• ❖ Saddam built a strong powerbase and a network of people in important positions who were loyal to him.
• ❖ He made sure he had control of key positions in the Ba'ath Party, important departments in the government, and the army.
• ❖ He placed family, friends and allies in positions of power.
• ❖ He kept military leaders happy by spending a lot on the army.

How was Saddam able to come to power in Iraq?

There were 6 important ways Saddam ensured his rise to power.

• ❖ In 1972, the Iraqi government nationalised the Iraqi oil industry, ending the control of British oil companies.
• ❖ Saddam used the money from oil to improve education, health and welfare services for the ordinary people of Iraq. New schools and hospitals were built.
• ❖ Electricity was extended to the countryside.
• ❖ Agriculture was improved and became more mechanised.
• ❖ Transport was improved, with new roads and bridges.
• ❖ An educated middle class of lawyers and businessmen began to emerge in Iraq.

How did Saddam extend his control over Iraq?

As his power grew, Saddam extended his control over ordinary Iraqis in five ways.

• ❖ Trade unions, schools and sports clubs were all brought under state control.
• ❖ Ba'ath Party members were promoted to government positions.
• ❖ Government control was extended over the army and police.
• ❖ Officers in the army were rotated so they couldn't build up opposition.
• ❖ Anyone suspected of disloyalty could be imprisoned or executed.