Before Saddam Hussein took power in 1979, Iraq was ruled by Ahmed Hassan al-Bakr. Al-Bakr was a prominent figure in the Ba’ath Party and served as President of Iraq from July 17, 1968, until his resignation on July 16, 1979, when Saddam Hussein succeeded him.
Al-Bakr’s presidency was marked by significant changes in Iraq’s political landscape, with a focus on modernization and nationalization of the oil industry. His regime sought to strengthen the country’s economy and improve infrastructure. However, it was also characterized by political repression and the elimination of rivals, paving the way for Saddam Hussein’s rise to power.
Saddam was initially a close ally of Al-Bakr, holding various key positions, including Deputy Chairman of the Revolutionary Command Council. However, over time, Saddam grew in influence and ultimately removed Al-Bakr from power, taking full control of the country and continuing some of the policies initiated during Al-Bakr’s administration while also consolidating his own authoritarian rule.