OSHER 653 - History Of The Most Important Six Countries In The Middle East

We will survey major historical events, cultural patterns, nationalism, "modernization", revolutions, and wars in the most important six countries in the Middle East. Emphasis will be given to the 19th and 20th centuries but we will also examine the roots of Islamic civilization dating back to the time of its founder, Muhammad (early 7th c). Major developments include the growth and evolution of Middle Eastern societies, the expansion of European powers in the region, challenges the West presented to traditional culture, government, and society, and the struggle for independence and political pluralism by Middle East peoples and their rulers.