Saddam Hussein's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 25, 2025

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Saddam Hussein. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Saddam Hussein was the fifth president of Iraq from 1979 to 2003, following the American invasion. He was a key member of the Arab Socialist Ba'ath Party and advocated for Ba'athism, blending Arab nationalism and socialism. His political ideology is known as Saddamism. He previously served as Vice President (1968-1979) and Prime Minister (1979-1991, 1994-2003). His rule ended with his overthrow and subsequent capture.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1948: Saddam commemorated for involvement in the 1948 Palestine War

Saddam Hussein received numerous medals from the Iraqi state commemorating his involvement or leadership during various events, including the 1948 Palestine War.

1963: Saddam commemorated for involvement in the 1963 revolution

Saddam Hussein received numerous medals from the Iraqi state commemorating his involvement or leadership during various events, including the 1963 revolution.

1968: Saddam commemorated for involvement in the 1968 revolution

Saddam Hussein received numerous medals from the Iraqi state commemorating his involvement or leadership during various events, including the 1968 revolution.

1970: Saddam commemorated for involvement in peace in 1970

Saddam Hussein received numerous medals from the Iraqi state commemorating his involvement or leadership during various events, including peace in 1970.

1973: Saddam commemorated for involvement in the 1973 Yom Kippur War

Saddam Hussein received numerous medals from the Iraqi state commemorating his involvement or leadership during various events, including the 1973 Yom Kippur War with Israel.

March 1975: Signing of the Algiers Agreement

On March 6, 1975, Iran and Iraq signed the Algiers Agreement, mediated by Algerian President Houari Boumediene, to settle border disputes and improve bilateral relations. Under the accord, Iraq was granted sovereignty over the eastern bank of the Shatt al-Arab waterway, while Iran retained control over the western bank. Following the agreement, Iraq and Iran restored full diplomatic relations and exchanged ambassadors.

1976: Promotion to General in the Iraqi Armed Forces

In 1976, Saddam Hussein rose to the position of general in the Iraqi armed forces, rapidly becoming the strongman of the government.

July 1979: Assumption of the Presidency

On July 16, 1979, Saddam Hussein forced the ailing al-Bakr to resign and formally assumed the presidency of Iraq, securing his grip on power.

1979: De Facto Leader of Iraq

By 1979, Saddam Hussein was the de facto leader of Iraq, taking on an increasingly prominent role as the face of the government both internally and externally as al-Bakr became unable to execute his duties.

1980: Saddam receives key to Detroit

In 1980, Saddam Hussein received a ceremonial key to the city of Detroit after donating nearly half a million dollars to a local church.

1980: Women Granted Full Suffrage

In 1980, Saddam Hussein's government granted women full suffrage and the right to run for office.

1991: Saddam awarded Order of the Mother of Battles

In 1991, Saddam Hussein received the Order of the Mother of Battles for his role in the Gulf War against Kuwait and the United States.

1991: Saddam awarded the Order of the Two Rivers

In 1991, Saddam Hussein was awarded the Order of the Two Rivers, Iraq's highest honor, for his "historic role" and "noble services to Iraq". The award was given during his 54th birthday.