The Middle East Conflict

by Alan Axelrod

The Middle East is often a pressure cooker of upheaval and the threat of war. Complex dynamics are at work, both culturally and politically, and understanding conflict in this region starts with understanding both recent and ancient events. Noted history writer, Alan Axelrod, PhD, breaks down the stereotypes and biases and helps readers not only understand what has been happening during the last 100 years, but why it has happened, who was involved, and what might happen in the future. Supplemental maps are also included.

Genres: History

352 pages, Paperback

First published November 4, 2014

About the author

Alan Axelrod, Ph.D., is a prolific author of history, business and management books. As of October 2018, he had written more than 150 books, as noted in an online introduction by Lynn Ware Peek before an interview with Axelrod on the National Public Radio station KPCW. Axelrod resides in Atlanta, Georgia.

Reviews

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

I learned a lot. Very informative and a good overview.

[Cherie · Rating 5 out of 5]

With all that has happened in the Middle East and with all the problems the world is facing because of Islamic jihad, from Palestine to Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran and more, I needed to know more about how it all came to pass. This book was an excellent education in the history of the Middle East, the rise of various Muslim groups that have played a political and/or military role in the area, and also a concise view of religious beliefs and practices. It certainly taught me that the whole package is very complicated and there are many reasons for why things are today, the way they are. The book is written in very to understand language, with certain key points emphasized and a section at the end of every chapter titled "The Least you Need to Know." I thoroughly recommend the book for anyone interested in the overall history of the Middle East and wanting to know why people there can't seem to live in peace.
The only negative I see about this book is that it was written in 2014 and much has happened in the 3 years since then. I need an update!