What was Iraq like prior to Saddam Hussein's rise to power?

Before Saddam Hussein came to power, Iraq was a country with a rich history and diverse cultural heritage. It was known for its ancient civilizations, including the Sumerians and Babylonians, and was considered a center of learning and trade in the Middle East. However, political instability and conflict were already present in Iraq before Saddam took control. The country had experienced several military coups and changes in government in the years leading up to Saddam's rise to power in the late 1970s.