Timeline of Syria

Chronology

33 events spanning the history of Syria. BCE/CE dating.

1. 2100 BCE

   Amorites came from the Arabian peninsula

   Amorites came from the Arabian peninsula and were the first important Semitic settlers in the area of Damascus. They established many small states.

2. 300 BCE – 64 BCE

   Antioch served as the capital of the kingdom of Syria.

   Antioch served as the capital of the kingdom of Syria.

3. 101 – 200

   Christianity grows into a strong religion in Syria.

   Christianity grows into a strong religion in Syria.

4. 395

   With the division of the Roman empire, Syria falls to Byzantine.

   With the division of the Roman empire, Syria falls to Byzantine (the eastern part of the Roman empire). Syria remained a region of prosperity.

5. 636

   After years of war, Syria is easily conquered by the Arabs.

   After years of war, Syria is easily conquered by the Arabs, and included in the Caliphate of Islam.

6. 877

   Syria is annexed by Egypt.

   Syria is annexed by Egypt.

7. 1099

   Western parts of Syria is incorporated in the Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem.

   Western parts of Syria is incorporated in the Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem.

8. 1250

   Egyptian Mamlukes take control over most of Syria.

   Egyptian Mamlukes take control over most of Syria.

9. 1300

   The last crusaders are driven out of Syria.

   The last crusaders are driven out of Syria. A well organized state is established, and run by local officials. Strong persecution of local sects.

10. 1516

    Syria is incorporated into the Ottoman Empire.

    Syria is incorporated into the Ottoman Empire. The following 4 centuries become a period of economic growth. Many parts of Syria had governors exercising great independence from the Ottoman sultan.