ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the Hashemite regime in Jordan and how it developed the ruling elite coalition over time. Abdullah's rule in Transjordan began as a compromise between the British and the Hashemite family to keep them from attacking Syria to reestablish Faisal as king. The chapter also focuses on the Jordanian Muslim Brotherhood and its political wing, the Islamic Action Front, focusing especially on how over time they shifted from a loyal opposition group to a contender. While the liberal wing emphasized religion over politics, others argued that the organization should become more politically oriented. The Jordanian Muslim Brotherhood was first legalized by King Abdullah following the country's independence in 1946, making the organization the oldest political opposition group in Jordan. The organizational structure of the JMB, as well as the IAF, puts them at stark contrast with the rest of the political establishment, not just in Jordan, but throughout the Middle East.
