Shiekh Ahmad Barzani was one of the most prominent Kurdish figures who exerted significant influence in the political landscape of Iraqi Kurdistan, He was the fifth Sheikh of Barzan and President of the Barzani Union. The Barzani Union represented seven influential clans, namely Brozhi, Nizari, Dolmari, Harki Binaji, Sherwani, Mzori, and Gardi. Shiekh Ahmed Barzani’s leadership and involvement played a pivotal role in shaping the political dynamics of the region.
Additionally, Sheikh Ahmad Barzani assumed a prominent role in the pivotal Barzan revolution of 1931-1932. As the leader, He rallied against the Iraqi royal authorities, who enjoyed support from British colonial powers. This revolution left a lasting impact, resulting in substantial opposition from British officers and adversaries within neighboring tribes and the elderly community. The ripple effect of this uprising extended beyond Barzan, garnering international attention and triggering a wave of disputes and charges against the Sheikh.
Shiekh Ahmed Barzani as revolution leader
The inaugural of the significant Barzani revolts occurred in 1931, led by Shiekh Ahmed Barzani, a highly influential Kurdish leader in Northern Iraq. Remarkably, he triumphed over several other Kurdish tribes during the conflict. However, circumstances took a turn as he was compelled to seek refuge in Turkey. Following his detention there, he was subsequently exiled to southern Iraq. From 1931 to 1937, he spearheaded the largest revolution in Barzan and earned the admiration of numerous Iraqi Army generals, among them General Abdul-Jabar Barznji, who served as the commander in the Barzan region.
Barzani emerged as a focal point of discontent for the British, Iraqi, and Turkish authorities. Particularly noteworthy was his strong support for the Kurdish movements in the North, spearheaded by Khoyboun, such as the Ararat Revolt. Barzan became a sanctuary for many Kurds seeking refuge, including notable figures like Kor Hussein Pasha. In September 1930, a Turkish military attaché in Baghdad informed Iraq’s Prime Minister Nuri Said about the Turkish forces’ successful operations in Ararat. They also hinted at the likelihood of similar operations taking place west of Lake Wan, with the expectation that they would conclude soon.
The Turkish army will mobilize along the Iraq-Turkey border if the Iraqi Army moves against the Sheikh Barzan. In fact, Ismet Inonu complained to Nuri Said in Ankara
Reforms
Barzani emerged as a trailblazer in the realm of Kurdish environmentalism and conservation, establishing himself as a pioneering leader in this field. Striving to ensure a pristine environment, he implemented a series of regulations aimed at fostering cleanliness. His efforts resulted in the establishment of numerous rules, laws, and reforms within the Barzani Kurdish community. Remarkably, these regulations have endured throughout the years, continuing to be followed by the Barzani Kurds to this day. Barzani’s legacy as an environmentalist and his lasting impact on the preservation of nature set a remarkable precedent for future generations.
Barzani implemented a comprehensive set of regulations, including the prohibition of various activities. These included cutting down trees, particularly those crucial for shade and erosion prevention, as well as the overharvesting of honey. Additionally, he forbade the killing of non-poisonous snakes, fishing with explosives, and hunting during breeding seasons. In a remarkable move towards social justice, he put an end to the practice of forcing girls into unwanted marriages and prohibited the exchange of girls for financial gain. Furthermore, Barzani fostered positive relationships with Christian and non-Muslim communities, promoting inclusivity. Notably, he emphasized peaceful coexistence by prohibiting violence against non-Muslims. While respecting Islamic values, he also obliged the Barzanis to support the cause for Kurdish independence. These regulations underscored Barzani’s commitment to environmental preservation, human rights, and harmonious community relations.
