The Middle East Since 1945 (Post-War World Series) - Hardcover

Although the emphasis of this book is on the conflicts and politics of the Middle East since the end of World War II, it also examines earlier events, such as the development of Arab nationalism, Zionism, and the Jewish settlement of Palestine. Lawless then focuses on the establishment of the state of Israel, Arab-Israeli wars, the influence of Nassar and Sadat, conflicts over oil, Western intervention, and the violence in Lebanon and Iran. The use of source documents to illustrate the views of different factions adds depth and understanding to a seemingly hopeless conflict of ideologies and nationalistic fervor. Quotations come from political speeches; resolutions from the United Nations; and various Arab-Israeli conferences, treaties, and memoirs. Background commentaries on individuals and events provided in the left-hand margins of each page effectively provide further information without making the text convoluted or confusing. Each chapter also includes thought-provoking questions. Some black-and-white photographs of protagonists are provided along with maps. This commendable study of 20th-century conflict in the Middle East should provide enlightenment on a tragic political situation that has global impact.
-Cynthia M. Sturgis, Ledding Library, Milwaukie, OR
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.