A Concise History of the Middle East

Book excerpt: A comprehensive introduction to the history of this turbulent region that spans from pre-Islam to the present day, A Concise History of the Middle East is distinguished by its clear style, broad scope, and balanced treatment. This widely acclaimed text by Arthur Goldschmidt Jr. explores the evolution of Islamic institutions and culture, the influence of the West, modernization efforts in the Middle East, 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 Middle East post-9/11 and post-Arab uprisings. The twelfth edition has been fully revised to reflect the most recent events in, and concerns of, the region, including the presence of ISIS and other non-state actors, the civil wars in Syria and Yemen, and the refugee crisis. In addition, the authors have added coverage of women's history, including new biographies of great and unsung women in the Middle East, to provide a fuller understanding of the cultural, political, and socioeconomic conditions in the Middle East. New parts and part timelines will help students grasp and contextualize the long and complicated history of the region. With updated biographical sketches and glossary and a new concluding chapter, A Concise History of the Middle East remains the quintessential text for students of Middle East history.