imposes high unrealistic taxes on the residents, causing the first wave of migration 1635 – the end of Fakhreddine's rule caused bloody conflicts in Mount Lebanon, many resident fled to safer regions 1750-1759 – The Hamadeh Rulers and their mob kill and rob the village until all residents evacuate and are displaced Economy The economy of this town has shifted dramatically in the past 50 years, from an agricultural rural community to a more skilled and educated workforce. In 2005 agriculture represented 22% of household income and represented a second stream income to most families. with an important olive oil production in the coastal area and fruits including apples and pears in the mountain area. The village is also known for its highly skilled stone masons and builders. During the 1930s, the Bqarkasha Arida family dynasty, established the largest textile manufacturing company in the Middle East, employed hundreds of Bkarkasha residents that brought wealth and skills to the local residents and the region. The Arida Manufacturing plant represented 12 percent of the Syria – Lebanon imports during the 1930s and 1940s. During World War II, the Arida company was a contributing supporter of the British Empires efforts in the war against Germany, manufacturing and supplying uniforms to the army as well as funding the development and construction of the British Air force Spitfire. George Arida for his efforts was appointed Honorary Consul British Empire. At the end of WW II, many Bkerkasha residents migrated to Sydney Australia where skilled textile workers and textile mechanics were in demand. Sydney has the largest concentration of Bkerkasha settlement outside Lebanon. References External links Bqerqacha, Localiban Bsharri District Maronite Christian communities in Lebanon