Pronunciation: [fˈalɐŋɡˌɪst] (IPA) 
The word "Phalangist" is spelled with the combination of letters "ph" which represents the sound of "f" in phonetic transcription. In IPA, the pronunciation of "Phalangist" is /fəˈlæŋ.ɡɪst/. This term refers to a member of a political party known as the Phalange, which originated in Lebanon. The correct spelling of this word is crucial in accurately conveying its meaning and avoiding confusion with similar terms or misspellings.
Phalangist refers to an individual who is associated with or supports Phalangism, a right-wing political ideology established in 1936 in Lebanon. Historically, Phalangism originated as a nationalist movement aimed at promoting the interests and rights of the Maronite Christian community in Lebanon. The ideology takes its name from the Spanish Falange, influenced by the Spanish fascist party.
Phalangists advocate for a strong central government and the preservation of the Lebanese Christian identity in the face of perceived threats from other religious and ethnic groups within Lebanon. They often emphasize the protection of Lebanon's cultural heritage, including its historical ties to Western civilization. Phalangist politics have typically leaned towards authoritarianism and have been associated with anti-Arab sentiment.
Phalangism gained traction during the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990), where the Phalange Party, backed by a predominantly Christian militia known as the Lebanese Forces, played a significant role. The party's political influence has since diminished, but their ideology and legacy continue to shape Lebanese politics.
The term "Phalangist" may also be used more broadly to refer to individuals who align themselves with similar right-wing nationalist ideologies advocating for the interests of their particular religious, ethnic, or cultural group. However, it is important to note that the term is primarily associated with Phalangism in Lebanon and its specific historical context.
The word "Phalangist" has its origins in the political and social context of early 20th-century Spain. It is derived from the Spanish term "Falange", which means "Phalanx" or "Phalanstery".
The Falange Española, or Spanish Phalanx, was a far-right political organization founded in 1933 by José Antonio Primo de Rivera. The Phalangists aimed to create a totalitarian state based on principles of Spanish nationalism, autarchy, and anti-communism. They promoted a corporatist structure and believed in the suppression of class struggle for the sake of national unity.
The organization's name, Falange, was inspired by the idea of a phalanx - a tightly organized military formation used in ancient Greece and later in the Renaissance period. The term "Phalangist" became associated with the members and supporters of the Falange Español.
