Inside the Lebanese Christian Elite: 'The Switzerland of the Middle East'

In the heart of the turbulent Middle East, Lebanon stood as an oasis of tranquility, earning the moniker "The Switzerland of the Middle East." This reputation was largely attributed to the country's Christian elite, who wielded significant influence in politics, finance, and culture. This elite, predominantly Maronite Catholics, enjoyed a privileged position in society, shaping Lebanon's identity as a beacon of coexistence and prosperity. However, beneath the surface of this idyllic image lay a complex web of power struggles, sectarian tensions, and economic disparities, which would eventually erode the foundations of this once-stable nation.