14 July Revolution

The 14 July Revolution, also called the 1958 Iraqi military coup, was an important event that happened on 14 July 1958 in Iraq. It led to the end of the rule of King Faisal II and the Kingdom of Iraq. After this revolution, Iraq became a new country called the Iraqi Republic.

Before this event, many people in Iraq were unhappy. They did not like the influence of Western countries and were upset about their economy. The king and the government did not listen to their concerns. Some soldiers and officers planned to change things.

On 14 July, these soldiers took control of the capital city, Baghdad. They ended the old government and started a new one. The new leaders promised to make Iraq stronger and more independent. This revolution changed the history of Iraq and its relationship with other countries around the world.

Pre-coup grievances

During the Second World War, many people in Iraq wanted to end British control. Schools helped spread ideas about being part of a larger Arab world. Leaders in Iraq wanted to unite with other Arab countries.

After the war, Iraq's economy struggled. Prices were high and living conditions were poor. Leaders disagreed on how to improve things, making it hard to create plans for growth.

In 1947, Iraq agreed to let Britain help with its military, but many people were unhappy. In 1955, Iraq joined a defense group with other countries, which upset many Iraqis. When Egypt and Syria joined together in 1958, Iraq tried to join with Jordan, but many people did not trust this idea.

Leaders in Iraq felt pressure from other countries and their own people, leading to growing unrest and disagreement.

Coup

On 14 July 1958, a group of military officers called the Free Officers, led by Brigadier Abdul-Karim Qasim, took control of Iraq. They ended the rule of King Faisal II and his government. This group was inspired by other officers who had taken power in nearby countries.

The Free Officers planned their actions carefully. They took over important places in the capital city, Baghdad, and announced the start of a new government. Sadly, during these events, several important leaders were killed. The new leaders worked to bring stability and order to the country after the coup.

Aftermath

Abdul-Karim Qasim’s quick takeover surprised the U.S. government. A leader of a U.S. spy group told the president he thought another leader from the Middle East was involved. He worried that this change might cause problems for other countries nearby that were friends with the United States.

After the revolution, Qasim became the leader of Iraq. New rules were announced, saying Iraq was now a republic and part of the larger Arab world. The country’s official religion was Islam. Two important groups that helped make laws were removed, and power was given to a group of ministers instead.

In the months that followed, Iraq’s situation stayed uncertain. Different groups tried to gain control. Iraq left an alliance with some countries and made new friends, including the Soviet Union. This led to the formation of a group of people who supported communist ideas in Iraq.