PSPA 253 Final, Fall 2005

PSPA 253 Final Examination Answer both questions: I. In both Syria and Algeria the military has played a decisive role in politics ever since independence. Nevertheless, in Algeria the military has displayed cohesion and demonstrated strong institutional capacity, whereas in Syria the military displayed factionalism and divisiveness. Explain and provide examples to substantiate your argument. II. Egypt has always been a political, cultural, and ideological pacesetter for other Arab countries (especially, Syria, Iraq, Algeria, etc.). Why? What did Egypt institute domestically that inspired other Arab countries to introduce into their own systems? Why did regional political influence wane since the death of President Nasser?