Iraq's revolution fifty years on - laying the path for conflict

Tomorrow marks the half century anniversary of one of Iraq's most significant 20th century moments. The July 14 1958 revolution marked the end of the Hashemite monarchy and cut the ties of colonialism that had existed since the Arab Revolt. It ushered in a violent, turbulent and polarising era that would make the country synonymous dictatorship, purges, wars and sectarian bloodshed. The coup d'etat executed by the Iraqi Free officers under the leadership of Abd al-Karim Qasim against the ruling monarchy was swift and brutal. King Faisal II and his family were executed at 8:00am and the military officers took control of Baghdad by noon. Prime Minister Nuri as-Said - having evaded capture on the 14th - was shot dead the following day.

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