The Modern Middle East: A Political History since the First World

The first succinct and authoritative overview of the making of the modern Middle East, this lucid book brings a valuable mix of historical perspectives and contemporary analysis to a wide audience of readers seeking expert knowledge about this troubled and fascinating region. Giving a rich perspective on the region's historical and political evolution, the book traces the influence of factors such as religion, culture, and economics and illuminates events and topics currently in the news. With its broad thematic sweep and its balanced presentation of contentious issues, it is essential reading for general readers and students who want to better understand the world today.

Mehran Kamrava sets the stage with a concise discussion of the evolution of Islam and the religion's profound role in the region. He then looks at, in turn, the rise and fall of the Ottomans, the trials of independence and state-building, the emergence and fiery spread of nationalism, the two Arab-Israeli wars of 1967 and 1973, the Iranian Revolution, and the two Gulf Wars and beyond, including discussion of the invasion of Iraq by the United States. After tracing the consequences of these historical events for a host of political phenomena, Kamrava gives detailed attention to three pivotal issues: the challenges of economic development, the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, and the question of democracy. He also examines issues that will shape the future: population growth, environmental pollution, and water scarcity.

Mehran Kamrava is Director of the Center for International and Regional Studies at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service in Qatar and Professor of Political Science at California State University, Northridge. He is the author of Revolution in Iran: The Roots of Turmoil, The Political History of Modern Iran: From Tribalism to Theocracy, Revolutionary Politics, Politics and Society in the Third World, Understanding Comparative Politics: A Framework for Analysis, Democracy in the Balance: Culture and Society in the Middle East, Cultural Politics in the Third World, Politics and Society in the Developing World, 2nd ed., and Iran's Intellectual Revolution. He has also edited The New Voices of Islam: Rethinking Politics and Modernity ) and is the co-editor of the two-volume work Iran Today: Life in the Islamic Republic.