ethnic conflicts in Lebanon, especially in the south. Aziz was reportedly an intermediary between factions during the 1975–1990 Lebanese Civil War and worked to protect Jezzine (a Christian enclave) during this turbulent time. He had good relations with the Saad family in Saida, the Junblat family in the Chouf and all of the numerous allied groups around the Palestinian Liberation Movement (PLO). One of the ways in which he was able to aid Jezzine and protect it from further conflict was when he initiated a pact between two prominent leaders in this region – Kamal Junblat and Maarouf Saad. Poetry While Aziz was most notably recognised for his influence in politics, he was also a poet. It was this love for poetry that aided his political orating skills as he believed that ‘politics and literature are two faces of one coin’. His works were largely influenced by French politicians who also contributed to French literature such as Charles De Gaulle and Mauriac. One of his more well-known works titled ‘The Lights of the Night’ ("Azaher el-Leil") is used frequently by public figures in ceremonies. A book was composed of his poetry works and was published by Notre Dame University. Personal life While his father worked as a wood trader in Mexico, Aziz's brother, Alfred Aziz, grew in recognition when he became a member of parliament in Mexico. He continued to gain this prominence in politics when he acted as the Speaker of the Mexican House of Representatives. Furthermore, Jean Aziz’s late uncle (his mother Anissa’s brother) was Patriarch Paul Meouchy, arguably one of the most prominent Maronite Patriarchs. In his spare time, Aziz enjoyed reading. His favourite topics included poetry, philosophy and history. On 13 March 1986, after struggling with diabetes, Aziz died. To allow for the prayers and religious traditions following his death, his body was moved from the American University’s Hospital in Beirut to Saint Joseph Church in Ashrafyah. Aziz's funeral took place in Jezzine and despite the district being under siege, his funeral was attended by a large number of high ranking state officials such as ministers, religious personals and members of parliament. References 1917 births 1986 deaths Lebanese politicians People from Jezzine People from South Lebanon