A Concise History of the Middle East

The tenth edition of this widely acclaimed text by Arthur Goldschmidt Jr. and Lawrence Davidson has been revised to reflect the latest scholarship and the most recent events in the Middle East. As an introduction to the history of this turbulent region from the beginnings of Islam to the present day, the book is distinguished by its clear style, broad scope, and balanced treatment. It focuses on the evolution of Islamic institutions and culture, the influence of the West, the modernization efforts of Middle Eastern governments, the struggle of various peoples for political independence, the course of the Arab–Israeli conflict, the reassertion of Islamic values and power, the issues surrounding the Palestinian Question, and the roles of Iraq and Iran in the post-9/11 Middle East. The tenth edition includes a new chapter, “In the Season of Arab Discontent,” that outlines the achievements and problems created by the recent Arab uprisings. In addition, earlier chapters have been streamlined for more accessible reading, and two popular study aids, the chronology and the glossary, have been revised.

Resources for instructors are available online atwestviewpress.com, including an updated bibliographic essay and test questions.

Arthur Goldschmidt Jr. is professor emeritus of Middle East history at Penn State University. He is the author of Modern Egypt: The Formation of a Nation-State, and the recipient of the Amoco Foundation Award for Outstanding Teaching and the 2000 Middle East Studies Association Mentoring Award.

Lawrence Davidson is professor of history at West Chester University. He is the author of several books, including America's Palestine and Islamic Fundamentalism.