As editor Tatlock (history, Armstrong Atlantic State U.) notes in his introduction, the combination of the contemporary political environment in the Middle East and its wealth of cultural history are fascinating even to the most casual observer. This book explores the religious history and beliefs of the region as well as numerous conflicts, specifically development and growth of Islam and its culture, the Ottoman Empire, British and French imperialism, society and politics, and dictatorship and democracy. Annotation 2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
