The Syro-Lebanese from ‘Syriban’: Nostalgia, Partition, and Coexistence in Eveline Bustros’ Imagined Homeland

This article offers new insights into nostalgia and nationalism in the Syrian/Lebanese diaspora through literary, artistic, philanthropic work of Eveline Bustros (1878–1971). It relies on her underexplored published works as well a rare collection Bustros’ personal correspondence, journals, photographs, speeches compiled by family. After World War I, French partitioned Bilad al-Sham multiple polities inaugurated citizenship regime dividing erstwhile Ottoman Syrians categories “Syrian” “Lebanese.” In midst these geopolitical changes, family lived Paris, where she began celebrated literary career. Although was committed Lebanese nationalist, articulated hybrid notions identity that elided distinctions between “Syrians” Confronted with reports sectarian violence during Syrian Revolt (1925–1927), used writings to grapple feasibility peaceful coexistence Levant. Upon returning Lebanon, became leading member Lebanon’s early feminist movement while maintaining deep, affective connections interior. life complicate understandings diasporic highlighting fluid identities shaped multidirectional bourgeois mobility, inviting scholars consider nationalisms beyond confines nation-state.