This article discusses the history of the region of Syria since antiquity; for the history of the modern state, see Modern history of Syria

History of Syria covers the developments in the region of Syria (Greek Συρία) and modern Syrian Arab Republic. Syria most likely derives from the name of the Neo-Assyrian Empire established in the 10th century BC. Modern Syria became independent in 1946 following a period of French occupation (1917–20) and Mandate (1920-1946). In 1958, the Republic of Syria became briefly part of the United Arab Republic but in 1961 withdrew from the federation. From 1963, the Syrian Arab Republic has been ruled by the Ba'ath with the Assad family exclusively from 1970. Currently Syria is fractured between rival forces on the course of the Syrian Civil War.