HIST 570: Middle East After WWII

Middle East After WII

Gain crucial context for the escalating tensions in the Middle East! This seminar offers a nuanced perspective on the history of the Middle East from the latter half of the twentieth century until today. The course is structured around three pivotal moments: the anti-colonial Arab movements of 1954-1956; the deepening of the Arab-Israeli conflict in 1967; and the emergence of the dual threats of Islamism and communism in Iran and Afghanistan in 1979. This class won’t give you a dry, chronological summary of “what happened.” Instead, we’ll work to gain an in-depth understanding of the multiple human, diplomatic, geographic, and ideological factors that have shaped today’s Middle East. Current events, novels, films, and short stories will be incorporated throughout the semester. No background in Middle East History is necessary to succeed in this course.