fco_385570 - III REPUBLIC - LEBANON 5 Piastres État du Grand Liban 1940

LEBANON - III REPUBLIC

During the First World War (1914-1918), Lebanon will experience famine and several plagues killing nearly a quarter of its population, especially in Christian regions. After the war, Lebanon and Syria were placed under French mandate. In response to the aspirations of the Lebanese people, especially the Maronites, for the formation of a Lebanese nation, General Gouraud returned territories that had been lost to the country. Thus, on September 1, 1920, Greater Lebanon was born within its current borders. The country is subject to the authority of a French high commissioner and an administrative commission. Local administration is also supervised by French councilors.