Bagpipes in Babylon: A Lifetime in the Arab World and Beyond

by Glencairn Balfour Paul

In his long and distinguished career in the Arab world, Glencairn Balfour Paul witnessed momentous changes in the region. Bagpipes in Babylon describes the colorful experiences of his working life including a face-to-face meeting with the young Saddam Hussein, his acquaintance with Wilfred Thesiger, his friendship in Beirut with Kim Philby, and his close relations with King Hussein of Jordan.

329 pages, Hardcover

First published February 21, 2005

About the author

(Hugh) Glencairn Balfour Paul CMG was a British Arabist and diplomat. He served as the British Ambassador to Iraq, Jordan and Tunisia before becoming an academic at Exeter University.