The rise and fall of Rafic Hariri (1944-2005)

Abstract

A name that will re-echo throughout Lebanese history, that of Rafic Hariri, a giant who gave his all to his country and sacrificed his very self at the end. His name is mentioned in every household and will be remembered by Lebanese. Rafic Hariri came from a Sunnite family of living in the outskirts of Sidon, where he spent his childhood years. Later, he traveled to KSA and executed brilliant projects which rendered him a billionaire. Backed up by his wealth and experience, Hariri chose to fulfill his youthful dreams of building up his country developing his country and finally gave his life for his ideal. The most outstanding project Hariri implemented was the reconstruction of Beirutduring the decade following the war. He actually earned his initial fame as the single most successful entrepreneur in Lebanon's recent history. Another interesting example that reflected his patriotic attitude was the efforts he made during the Taïf conference, in order to come to resolve the Lebanese conflict. The negotiations involved considerable risk but resulted in ending 17 years of war with the conclusion of the Taïf Agreement. In fact he accomplished positive social, political and economic changes in Lebanon ; despite many internal and external obstacles that he faced. Now there is much discussion about the reconstruction process and Hariri's policies in addition to his quest for leadership and its bases. Four relevant theories of leadeship are listed and explained followed by a study to see of how they applied in the case of Hariri. Then the political history of the late Prime Minister is revived, starting with time when he was at the peak of his power and continuing with the economic problems he faced till the last mandate, accompanied by an analysis of his leadership skills.