Why is Hafez al-Assad important?

Hafez al-Assad was a significant figure in Syrian history, serving as the country's president from 1971 until his death in 2000. He established an authoritarian regime characterized by a strong centralized government and the suppression of political dissent. His policies emphasized modernization and secularism, while also maintaining close ties with the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Al-Assad's legacy continues to influence Syria's political landscape, particularly through the continued rule of his son, Bashar al-Assad.