Sassoon Eskell

Sir Sassoon Eskell

Sassoon Eskell (1860 – 1932) was an influential Iraqi politician and financier. He is often referred to as the "Father of the Iraqi Parliament" due to his significant role in the establishment and development of the parliamentary system in Iraq.

Early Life

Sassoon Eskell was born in Baghdad, which was then part of the Ottoman Empire. He hailed from a prominent Baghdadi Jewish family. His early education was in Baghdad, and he later pursued higher education in Istanbul, where he studied law and finance.

Political Career

Eskell's political career began in the Ottoman Empire, where he served as a member of the Ottoman Parliament. Following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire after World War I, Eskell played a crucial role in the formation of the modern state of Iraq.

Role in the Iraqi Government

In 1920, Eskell was appointed as the first Minister of Finance of Iraq. He was instrumental in establishing the financial infrastructure of the new state. His policies and reforms helped stabilize the Iraqi economy during its formative years.

Contributions to the Iraqi Parliament

Eskell was a key figure in drafting the Constitution of Iraq and was a strong advocate for a parliamentary system. He served multiple terms in the Iraqi Parliament, where he worked tirelessly to promote democratic principles and governance.

Legacy

Sassoon Eskell's contributions to the political and financial foundations of Iraq have left a lasting legacy. He is remembered as a pioneer of modern Iraqi politics and a champion of parliamentary democracy. His efforts in the early 20th century continue to influence the political landscape of Iraq today.

See Also

• Iraqi Parliament
• Baghdadi Jews
• Ottoman Empire
• Minister of Finance (Iraq)
• Constitution of Iraq