ABSTRACT
The historical background of Libya provides some understanding of the factors and elements which have shaped the political culture of contemporary Libyan society. This chapter gives particular attention to the role played by education and religion within the historical background. It then goes on to examine the state ideology of the revolutionary regime since 1969, through three main stages: first, from the founding of the revolution in September 1969 to 1973; second, from the popular revolution in April 1973 to 1976; third, from 1976 to date (including crucially, the 'Declaration of the Authority of the People' in March 1977). Finally, the chapter examines the revolutionary regime's use of political socialisation as an instrument to create 'revolutionary citizens.' Special attention is given to the education system as a political socialisation agent.
