ABSTRACT

In most Arab countries of the Middle East. between Egypt and Iraq. there were but few changes in the composition of the ruling elite. up to the end of the Second World War. For generations. real political power and socio-economic influence were exercised by 'an alliance between landlords. rich bourgeois merchants and entrepreneurs. tribal chiefs. and religious hierarchs.'! While not all these elements predominated to the same extent in every Arab country. a combination of some of them. supporting a foreign or a local ruler. perpetuated his rule as well as their own preponderance in all matters of State and finance.