Fà'iz El-Ghusein
Damascus was known in ancient times for its art, architecture, and literature. But it took an unknown work by a twentieth century writer to help me see its academic legacy. Fà'iz El-Ghusein documented in 1915 what he had seen, and heard second-hand, at a pain-filled time in modern history.
Although "Martyred Armenia" covers one of the greatest tragedies, it inadvertently shows El-Ghusein's dedication to sorting out facts. And his interviews, to identify who unleashed the whirlwind, can teach our twenty-first century journalists a few lessons.
by Frederick Leighton, 1873
As he traveled to get the names and numbers of people involved, El-Ghusein personified reporting at its best. He wrote a balanced account showing how ordinary followers of Islam did help, even defying State dictat. But the goons of a brutal regime crushed people's natural attempt to help and save neighbors.
It was El-Ghusein's openly pointing finger that impressed me most. Remember, European governments still ruled most non-European people in 1915, but his words were direct.
« In conclusion, I would address myself to the Powers of Europe, and say that it is they themselves who have encouraged the Turkish Government to this deed, for they were aware of the evil administration of that Government, and its barbarous proceedings on many occasions in the past, but did not check it. »
Who was Fà'iz El-Ghusein? More than ninety years after he wrote this document, our world still seeks such insight and eloquence.
Other heroes and heroines
Bryan Clark, Australian teacher
John Clark, American philosopher
Contact
I'm available at frontender[AT]veeryani[DOT]com. Replace the brackets, and words in them, with the usual symbols.
Links
.- VEERYANI: little-known, unsung heroes and heroines
- [veeryani: language Sanskrit, meaning heroic deeds; from the word veer for brave, courageous, hero.]
