This article discusses the history of the region of Syria since antiquity; for the history of the modern state, see Modern history of SyriaHistory of Syria covers the developments in the region of Syria (Greek Συρία) and modern Syrian Arab Republic. Syria most likely derives from the name of the Neo-Assyrian Empire established in the 10th century BC. Modern Syria became independent in 1946 following a period of French occupation (1917–20) and Mandate (1920-1946).