The Middle East

Description:

The author cites historical developments in his analysis of the region's problems, strengths, and weaknesses. He critiques Pan-Arabism and Pan-Islamism as myths, analyzes the significance of oil in the region, and the effect of Jewish Zionism on the political balance. Part of the author's conviction that outside forces--that is, the United States--should solve the problems of the region comes from his assertion that Arab elites wasted their opportunities after WWI to improve life for the people there. This is also an international relations analysis; domestic affairs are not extensively discussed, and the colonial powers of France, Germany, the USSR, and especially Britain are viewed as the prime movers of events.

subjects: Politics and government,  World War, 1939-1945,  Guerra mundial, 1939 1945,  Política

Places: Arabian Peninsula,  Middle East