The Transformation of Nomadic Society in the Arab East (University of Cambridge Oriental Publications)

In this 2000 book, Martha Mundy and Basim Musallam bring together an international team of contributors consisting of archaeologists, geographers, historians, anthropologists and agronomists in a penetrating, interdisciplinary account of the transformation of nomadic society. The chapters provide an integrated analysis of the changing relations of ecology, economy and socio-political organisation in the steppes of the central Middle East, documenting the longue-durée of history alongside the more rapid transformations of the twentieth century. A series of maps and figures illustrate the narrative while a bibliographic essay analyses the existing literature. This is an accessible and interactive book which provides a comprehensive overview of a fascinating and complex society. It will attract readers from a variety of disciplines, including those interested in contemporary environmental and development issues.