ABSTRACT
An introduction to the history of this turbulent region from the beginnings of Islam to the present day, this widely acclaimed text by Arthur Goldschmidt Jr. is distinguished by its clear style, broad scope, and balanced treatment. It covers a vast range of topics, including 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 Arab-Israeli conflict, the reassertion of Islamic values and power, the issues surrounding the Palestinian Question, and the post-9/11 Middle East. The eleventh edition is fully revised to reflect recent events in the region, including expanded and updated discussions of the "War on Terrorism" and the Arab uprisings, plus coverage of the rise of ISIL. The text also includes a brand-new chapter on the environmental problems of the region, which increasingly affect its dynamics and politics. With updated electronic supplements, including a test bank, bibliography, and digital maps, A Concise History of the Middle East remains the quintessential text on Middle East history