The Greatness and Drama: The History of the Middle East from the 19th to the 21st Century

The end of the 19th century marked a time of profound change for the Middle East, bringing hope for a bright future to its people. However, the tragedy of World War I brutally shattered all bright hopes and aspirations. The map of the Middle Eastern region underwent colossal changes, and the inevitability stemming from the sad events of the recent past and such a grim reality reduced the inhabitants of the region to the status of passive hostages to the new conflicts looming over them. A subject of geopolitical disputes after World War I, a theater of ideological struggle between the USSR and the USA, a primary center for continuous oil extraction, and a launchpad for numerous invasions—the very history of the Middle East has long been shaped by the forces of world powers. However, what lies behind the scenes of the theater of endless military actions and political intrigues? Who, and more importantly, why can no longer remain among the spectators, watching the tragedy of their people, and decides to step onto the stage, taking up arms? From the period of the Tanzimat and the consequences of World War I to the Arab Spring and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict—this book addresses the most problematic points and painful topics of the Middle Eastern region during the 19th to early 21st centuries.