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Mideast Politics

Purpose of Course  showclose

Course Information  showclose

Learning Outcomes  showclose

Course Requirements  showclose

• Unit 1
• Unit 2
• Unit 3
• Unit 4
• Unit 5
• Unit 6
• Unit 7
• Unit 8
• Unit 9
• Unit 10
• Unit 11
• Unit 12
• Unit 13
• Unit 14
• Unit 15
• Unit 16
• Final Exam
• All Units

Unit Outline show close

Unit 1: Geography of the Modern Middle East  

In order to understand the politics of the Middle East, it is necessary that you first know the geographical relationships between and among the states of the region.  This is particular important with respect to conflicts between nations, the influence of ethnic groups across the region, and the strategic interest of foreign powers in the region.  

Unit 1 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 1 Learning Outcomes   show close


1.1 Middle Eastern States  

• Web Media: World Atlas’ “The Middle East”

  Link: World Atlas’ “The Middle East” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and review the maps of the Middle East on this webpage with attention to the names and borders of states.  Also, read the brief text on the Middle East.  Please note that this resource also covers the topic outlined in subunit 1.2.
   
  You should spend approximately 1 hour studying these maps, taking notes, and identifying the names of bordering states and bodies of water in the Middle East.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above. 

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

1.2 Middle Eastern Bodies of Water  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 1.1.  To cover this topic, review the map again and pay attention to the names and locations of the bodies of water.  You should spend approximately 30 minutes reviewing the bodies of water on the map.

1.3 Middle Eastern Ethnicities  

• Reading: University of Notre Dame’s OpenCourseWare: Professor Asma Afsaruddin’s “Ethnic and Religious Diversity”

  Link: University of Notre Dame’s OpenCourseWare: Professor Asma Afsaruddin’s “Ethnic and Religious Diversity” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read with the intention of learning the names of the principal ethnic and religious groups in the Middle East, along with the primary characteristics that distinguish them and their primary geographical locations. 
   
  Studying this reading should take approximately 45 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: PBS’s “Global Connections: The Middle East”

  Link: PBS’s “Global Connections: The Middle East” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and review the data in the charts with attention to the majority ethnic group in each society and the most significant minority groups.  This resource also covers the topic outlined in subunit 1.4. 
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes studying and note-taking on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

1.4 Middle Eastern religions  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 1.3.  To cover the topic of religion, review the data in the charts again and pay particular attention to the majority religion in each society and the most significant minority religions.  You should spend approximately 15 minutes reviewing this resource.

• Assignment: About.com’s “Free Blank Outline Map of the Middle East”

  Link: About.com’s “Free Blank Outline Map of the Middle East” (HTML) (JPG)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above.  If possible, try to print out this blank map of the Middle East.  Then, fill in the name of each state and body of water.  For each state, name the majority religion and ethnic group, as well as any minority religion or ethnic group totaling more than 5% of the population.  Be sure to distinguish between Shia and Sunni Muslims.  If you are unable to print the map out, try to develop a system to organize how you will label each state and body of water.  After you have filled out the map, double check your answers by reviewing the map linked under subunit 1.1.
   
  You should spend approximately 1 hour completing this assignment.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

Unit 2: Introduction to Contemporary Issues in the Politics of the Middle East  

In this unit, you will survey some contemporary developments in the Middle East.  The purpose here is to become aware of these developments and to begin to think through the how they are represented the media and academic material.  Later, you will return to these themes, having studied the political history of the region and having critically considered questions of methodology.

Unit 2 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 2 Learning Outcomes   show close


2.1 The Arab Spring  

• Reading: The Nation: Rashid Khalidi’s “The Arab Spring”

  Link:The Nation: Rashid Khalidi’s “The Arab Spring” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read this entire article.  Use this resource as an introduction to all of the topics covered in this unit.  This resource also covers the topics outlined in sub-subunits 2.1.1, 2.1.2, and 2.1.3.
   
  Studying this reading should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Center for Strategic and International Studies’ “Understanding the Arab Spring: Public Opinion and the Roots of Revolution in the Arab World”

  Link: Center for Strategic and International Studies’ “Understanding the Arab Spring: Public Opinion and the Roots of Revolution in the Arab World” (HTML) (MP3)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and select play to listen to this discussion about the Arab Spring, moderated by Anthony Cordesman and featuring Craig
  Charney.  This resource also covers the topics outlined in sub-subunits 2.1.1, 2.1.2, and 2.1.3.
   
  Listening to this audio and pausing to take notes should take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Aljazeera’s “The Arab Awakening”

  Link: Aljazeera’s “The Arab Awakening” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and study the information on this webpage.  Use this resource as an introduction to all of the topics covered in this unit.  This resource also covers the topics outlined in sub-subunits 2.1.1, 2.1.2, and 2.1.3.
   
  This reading should take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

2.1.1 The Tunisian Uprising  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 2.1.  Focus on the reasons for the Tunisian uprising and the possible consequences of it.

2.1.2 The Egyptian Uprising  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 2.1.  Focus on the reasons for the Egyptian uprising and the possible consequences of it.

2.1.3 Other Uprisings across the Middle East  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 2.1.  Use these resources to get an overview of the prevalence and nature of the uprisings across the Middle East.

2.2 U.S. Withdrawal from Iraq  

• Reading: Global Post: HDS Greenway’s “Iraq: How Long Can It Hold Together?” and Philip S. Balboni’s “Iraq War: Tragedy and Irony Abound as U.S. Announces Departure”

  Link: Global Post: HDS Greenway’s “Iraq: How Long Can It Hold Together?” (HTML) and Philip S. Balboni’s “Iraq War: Tragedy and Irony Abound as U.S. Announces Departure” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the links above, and read both of these articles in their entirety.  Use these resources to frame the fundamental questions about the United States’ withdrawal from Iraq.  Compare these articles, and identify reasons for and against withdrawal.  Make sure to take comprehensive notes on these articles and the positions each author takes.  This resource also applies to the topic outlined in sub-subunit 2.2.1.
   
  Studying these articles and identifying reasons for and against withdrawal should take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

2.2.1 Reasons for Withdrawal  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 2.2.  In particular, focus on HDS Greenway’s article to reinforce your understanding of reasons in support of U.S. withdrawal from Iraq.

2.2.2 Implications of Withdrawal  

• Reading: Middle East Policy Council’s “Iraq after the U.S. Troop Withdrawal”

  Link: Middle East Policy Council’s “Iraq after the U.S. Troop Withdrawal” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article to learn about who has benefitted from the Gulf War and what the challenges of withdrawal will be.
   
  Studying this article should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

2.3 U.S. Withdrawal from Afghanistan  

• Web Media: Democracy Now’s “Obama Plan for Afghan War Withdrawal Will Leave Troop Size at Pre-Surge Levels”

  Link: Democracy Now’s “Obama Plan for Afghan War Withdrawal Will Leave Troop Size at Pre-Surge Levels” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, select “download” for the video, and watch this video from the 15:36 mark until the end.  Focus on the size and nature of the American presence in Afghanistan after the official withdrawal.  This resource also covers the topics outlined for sub-subunits 2.3.1 and 2.3.2.
   
  Viewing this video and pausing to take notes should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

2.3.1 Reasons for Withdrawal  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 2.3.  Focus on the official and possible unofficial reasons for U.S. withdrawal, as well as on the nature of the U.S. presence that will remain in Afghanistan.

2.3.2 Implications of Withdrawal  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 2.3.  Focus on the likely consequences of a U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

2.4 Sanctions on Iran  

• Web Media: Free Documentaries: Aaron Newman’s “Iran (Is Not the Problem)”

  Link: Free Documentaries: Aaron Newman’s “Iran (Is Not the Problem)” (YouTube)
   
  Instructions: Make sure you watch the film (not the trailer).  Click on “WATCH FILM NOW.”  Focus on the rationale for U.S. concerns about Iran’s nuclear program and the strategy it will adopt in response.  Try to situate the comments made in the film within a broader political worldview, and consider alternatives to the positions offered in the film.  This video also covers the topic outlined in sub-subunit 2.4.1.
   
  Viewing this film, pausing to take notes, and reflecting on alternatives to the positions offered in the film should take approximately 2 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: LA Times: Paul Richter’s “Obama Administration Takes a Back Seat on Iran Sanctions”

  Link: LA Times: Paul Richter’s “Obama Administration Takes a Back Seat on Iran Sanctions” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the brief article in its entirety.  Focus on how the Obama Administration’s approach to Iran has differed from the previous administration’s approach.  Make sure to click “next” at the bottom of the first webpage to read both pages of the article.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

2.4.1 Purpose of the Sanctions  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 2.4.   Focus on the official and possible unofficial reasons for the U.S. sanctions on Iran.

2.4.2 Effects of the Sanctions  

• Reading: Middle East Council Policy: Nathaniel Kern and Matthew M. Reed’s “The Ripple Effects of Iran Sanctions”

  Link: Middle East Council Policy: Nathaniel Kern and Matthew M. Reed’s “The Ripple Effects of Iran Sanctions” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article.  Focus on who benefits and who is harmed by the sanctions on Iran.
   
  You should spend approximately 45 minutes on this reading.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

Unit 3: Orientalism and the Problem of Methodology  

Historically, journalistic and scholarly attempts to understand the Middle East have been frustrated by a variety of stereotypes and a colonial or neocolonial political agenda.  The result has been a series of (mis)representations and the production of a dominant discourse, often referred to as “Orientalism.”  Within the discourse of Orientalism, the Middle Easterner or “Oriental” is defined by the Westerner or “Occidental” in a context of imperial domination.  The Oriental plays the role of an “other” to the Occidental, in contrast to which he defines himself.  The function of Orientalist discourse is to order identity and to justify domination.  In this unit, you will identify the components of Orientalism, summarize its deficiencies, recognize instances of Orientalism in popular media and scholarship, and identify how the problems associated with Orientalism might be overcome.

Unit 3 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 3 Learning Outcomes   show close


3.1 Identification of stereotypes  

• Web Media: Free Documentaries: Jeremy Earp’s “Reel Bad Arabs”

  Link: Free Documentaries: Jeremy Earp’s “Reel Bad Arabs” (YouTube)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, select “WATCH NOW,” and view this entire documentary.  As you are watching, try to identify Arab stereotypes in film.  Consider the political implications of these stereotypes.
   
  You should spend approximately 1 hour on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

3.2 Definition of Orientalism  

• Reading: Emory University: Danielle Sered’s “Orientalism”

  Link: Emory University: Danielle Sered’s “Orientalism” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the information on this webpage for a critique of Edward Said’s theory on Orientalism.  Review the meaning of the central ideas and terms within Orientalism.  This resource also covers the topics outlined for sub-subunits 3.2.1 and 3.2.2.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: Media Education Foundation’s “Edward Said on Orientalism”

  Link: Media Education Foundation’s “Edward Said on Orientalism” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view the brief video clip.  You may also download the transcript of the video by clicking on the “Transcript” link.  Focus on identifying what Orientalism is and the motives animating it.  This resource also covers the topics outlined in sub-subunits 3.2.1 and 3.2.2.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Boston Review: Lawrence Rosen’s “Orientalism Revisited: Edward Said’s Unfinished Critique”

  Link: Boston Review: Lawrence Rosen’s “Orientalism Revisited: Edward Said’s Unfinished Critique” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article to deepen your understanding of what Orientalism is, of the problems it poses for scholarship on the Middle East, and of the debates sparked by Said’s theory.  This resource also covers the topics outlined for sub-subunits 3.2.1 and 3.2.2.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 45 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: The Reading Group: Mohamed Imran Mohamed Taib’s “On Orientalism and Orientalism-in-Reverse among Muslims”

  Link: The Reading Group: Mohamed Imran Mohamed Taib’s “On Orientalism and Orientalism-in-Reverse among Muslims” (PDF)
  
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and then scroll down the website under “Articles/Essays” to Taib’s article.  Click on the link for “On Orientalism and Orientalism-in-Reverse among Muslims” to download the resource, and read the entire text (17 pages).  Focus on the impact of Orientalism on academic discourse in the Middle East.  This reading also covers the topics outlined in sub-subunits 3.2.1 and 3.2.2.
   
  Reading and note-taking should take approximately 2 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

3.2.1 Definition of the Orient and the Occident  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 3.2.  Focus on how the distinction between the Orient and the Occident is ordinarily drawn.  Focus on which characteristics and geographical boundaries are associated with the Orient and which with the Occident. 

3.2.2 Definition of the Relationship between the Two  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 3.2.  Focus on the nature of the relationship between the Orient and the Occident.

3.3 The Influence of Orientalism on Scholarship of the Middle East  

• Reading: The Orange Grove: Stephen Sheehi’s Foundations of Modern Arab Identity

  Link: The Orange Grove: Stephen Sheehi’s Foundations of Modern Arab Identity (PDF)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and then select the “Foundations of Modern Arab Identity” link to download the PDF version of the text.  Please read the “Introduction” on pages 1-14.  This resource covers the topic outlined in subunit 3.4.
   
  You should spend approximately 1 hour on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: The Orange Grove: John Bunzl’s Islam, Judaism, and the Political Role of Religions in the Middle East

  Link: The Orange Grove: John Bunzl’s Islam, Judaism, and the Political Role of Religions in the Middle East (PDF)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and then select the “Islam, Judaism, and the Political Role of Religions in the Middle East” link to download the PDF version of the text.  Read the “Foreword” on pp. vii-xii.  This resource covers the topic outlined in subunit 3.4.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

3.4 The Influence of Orientalism on Colonial Policy in the Middle East  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 3.3.  Focus on how Orientalism has been used to justify colonial policy.

Unit 4: Islam  

As is the case with any religion, there are many different variants and factions of Islam.  In this unit, you will identify the origin of Islam and become familiar with the main tenets of the religion.  Most importantly, you will differentiate among various interpretations of Islam and the various ways in which Muslims relate to the Koran and the main tenets of Islam. 

Unit 4 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 4 Learning Outcomes   show close


• Reading: Foreign Policy Watch: Matt Eckel and Jeb Koogler’s “Religions Do Not Speak”

  Link: Foreign Policy Watch: Matt Eckel and Jeb Koogler’s “Religions Do Not Speak” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text.  This reading makes a useful point about the impossibility of fixing the meaning of any religious tradition.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

4.1 The Origins of Islam  

• Web Media: Free Documentaries: Omar AL-Qattan, Michael Schwarz, Kikim Media’s “Muhammad: Legacy of a Prophet”

  Link: Free Documentaries: Omar AL-Qattan, Michael Schwarz, Kikim Media’s “Muhammad: Legacy of a Prophet” (YouTube)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and watch the preview for a basic introduction to Muhammad and the ways in which politics has influenced his legacy.
   
  Viewing this preview should take less than 15 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

4.2 The Spread of Islam  

• Reading: History World’s “Islam from the Beginning to 1300”

  Link: History World’s “Islam from the Beginning to 1300” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire webpage for a review of the founding moments in Islam.
   
  Reading and note-taking should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

4.3 Tenets of Islam  

• Reading: Canada Free Press: Kelly O’Connell’s “Non-Believers under Muslim Law”

  Link: Canada Free Press: Kelly O’Connell’s “Non-Believers under Muslim Law” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read this article, which addresses the question of Islam’s traditional approaches to non-believers.
   
  Studying this reading should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Mark Clyde’s “Islam: A Primer”

  Link: Mark Clyde’s “Islam: A Primer” (PDF)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and then scroll down and click on the article’s title to download the PDF.  Read the entire text (6 pages).  Focus on key tenets of Islam, such as i. Duties of Muslims, ii. Dhimmis, iii. Five Pillars of Faith, iv. Different Meanings of Jihad, v. Shari’ah, vi. Ijtihad, vii. Ulama, and viii. Sufism.
   
  Reading, note-taking, and studying the key tenets of Islam should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Middle Tennessee State University: Muslim Student Association’s “The Status of Women in Islam”

  Link: Middle Tennessee State University: Muslim Student Association’s “The Status of Women in Islam” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read this brief text.  It is often asserted that Islam is a sexist, even misogynist religion.  This reading emphasizes the actual effects that early Islam had on Muslim women and the status of women in Islam more broadly.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this reading.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.

  Submit Materials

4.4 The Problem of Succession  

• Lecture: iTunes: Dr. Graham Leonard’s “Middle East Problems Origins: Part 1”

  Link: iTunes: Dr. Graham Leonard’s “Middle East Problems Origins: Part 1” (iTunes)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and select “View in iTunes” for “Middle East Problems Origins: Part 1.”  Please view this entire lecture.  Consider the historical origins of contemporary conflicts between Sunni and Shia Muslims.
   
  Viewing this brief lecture and pausing to take notes should take approximately 15 minutes to complete.
  
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

Unit 5: Arabism, World War I, and the Mandate System  

Many of the contemporary problems and conflicts in the Middle East have their historical origin in Europe’s conquest of the Middle East during World War I.  In this unit, you will identify the effects of the transition from Ottoman to European hegemony in the Middle East during the World War I period and its immediate aftermath. 

Unit 5 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 5 Learning Outcomes   show close


5.1 The Disintegration of the Ottoman Empire  

• Reading: Theo Pavlidis’s A Concise History of the Middle East: “Chapter 20: The End of the Ottoman Empire”

  Link: Theo Pavlidis’s A Concise History of the Middle East: “Chapter 20: The End of the Ottoman Empire” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read Chapter 20, which examines the causes of the decline of the Ottoman Empire.  This reading also covers the topics outlined in sub-subunits 5.1.1 through 5.1.3.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

5.1.1 Territories of the Ottoman Empire  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 5.1.  Focus on the areas controlled by the Ottomans leading up to WWI.

5.1.2 The Committee of Union and Progress (CUP)  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 5.1.  Focus on the reforms made by the CUP.

5.1.3 The Expulsion of the Anatolian Armenians  

• Reading: Maclean’s: Michael Petrou’s “A Turkish Scholar Discusses the Armenian Genocide”

  Link: Maclean’s: Michael Petrou’s “A Turkish Scholar Discusses the Armenian Genocide” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read Petrou’s interview with Taner Akçam.  As you read, focus on the Ottomans’ rationale for the expulsion of the Armenians.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this reading.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

5.2 Arabism  

• Reading: Sandbox: Martin Kramer’s “Arab Nationalism: Mistaken Identity”

  Link: Sandbox: Martin Kramer’s “Arab Nationalism: Mistaken Identity” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the article in its entirety.  Focus on the reasons for the rise, decline, and chances of a resurgence of Arabism.  Please note that this reading covers the topics outlined in sub-subunits 5.2.1 through 5.2.3 as well as the 5.3.1 through 5.3.4.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 3 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above. 

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

5.2.1 Definition  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 5.2.  Make sure you understand the origin and meaning of Arabism.

5.2.2 Threat to Ottomans  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 5.2.  As you review this resource, focus on the reasons for the Ottoman opposition to Arabism and the threat it posed to the Ottoman Empire. 

5.2.3 Role in World War I  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 5.2.  As you review the resource, please note the rationale for British support of Arabism. 

5.3 World War I  

• Web Media: Carnegie Council’s “Storm from the East: The Struggle between the Arab World and the Christian West”

  Link: Carnegie Council’s “Storm from the East: The Struggle between the Arab World and the Christian West” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and watch the video from 20:25-26:20 minutes.  This resource also covers the topics outlined in sub-subunits 5.3.1 through 5.3.3.
  
  Viewing this section of the video and pausing to take notes should take less than 15 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.

  Submit Materials

• Web Media: NPR: Mike Schuster’s “The Middle East and the West: WWI and Beyond”

  Link: NPR: Mike Schuster’s “The Middle East and the West: WWI and Beyond” (HTML) (MP3)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, read the brief article on the webpage, and select the icon to listen to the broadcast (approximately 9 minutes).  You may also click on “Transcript” to download the transcript of the podcast.  This resource also covers the topics outlined in sub-subunits 5.3.1 through 5.3.3.
   
  Reading the main text and transcript, viewing the podcast, and taking notes should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

5.3.1 Husayn-McMahon Correspondence  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunits 5.2 and 5.3.  Focus on the commitments made by Husayn and the British.

5.3.2 Sykes-Picot Agreement  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunits 5.2 and 5.3.  Focus on the substance of the agreement and the effect this agreement had on previous commitments made in the Husayn-McMahon Correspondence.

5.3.3 Outcome  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunits 5.2 and 5.3.  Focus on who was in control of the territories of the Middle East after WWI.

5.3.4 Balfour Declaration  

• Reading: Middle East Policy Council: Jonathan Schneer’s “The Balfour Declaration: The Origins of the Arab-Israeli Conflict”

  Link: Middle East Policy Council: Jonathan Schneer’s “The Balfour Declaration: The Origins of the Arab-Israeli Conflict” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article (4 pages).  Make sure to click on the ‘next’ link at the bottom of each page to move on to subsequent pages.  Focus on the commitments made to Zionists and Arabs and the British rationale for issuing the Balfour Declaration. 
  
  Studying this resource should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

5.4 Mandate System  

• Reading: Yahoo Voices: Patrick Hayes’ “The Mandate System in the Post WWI Era Middle East”

  Link: Yahoo Voices: Patrick Hayes’ “The Mandate System in the Post WWI Era Middle East” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article.  Focus on the disjunction between the purported intent of the mandate system and its reality.  This resource also covers the topics outlined for sub-subunits 5.4.1 through 5.4.4.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this reading.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Mideast Web’s “The League of Nations’ Mandate System”

  Link: Mideast Web’s “The League of Nations’ Mandate System” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the introductory text as well as Article 22 of the Covenant of the League of Nations, 28 June 1919.  Focus on the official definition of a mandate.  This resource also covers the topics outlined for sub-subunits 5.4.1 through 5.4.4.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

5.4.1 Definition  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 5.4.  Focus on how the mandate system was intended to be different from colonialism.

5.4.2 Origin  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 5.4.  Focus on the reasons for adoption of the mandate system.

5.4.3 Purpose  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 5.4.  Focus on the ostensible goals of the mandate program and its actual goals.

5.4.4 The Persistence of Colonial Policy  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 5.4.  Focus on the way the mandate system was used to justify colonial policy.

Unit 6: Turkey and Iran  

Turkey and Iran both emerged as nation-states in the ruins of great empires.  They followed similar paths to independence and have wrestled with the challenges of democratization, human rights, political Islam, and the accommodation of minorities.  In spite of these similarities, Turkey and Iran have followed different paths in the last few decades.  These differences can be explained, in part, by events and decisions made in their struggle to constitute themselves as independent states.  In this unit, you will chart the modern development of Turkey and Iran and identify similarities and differences between the two societies.  

Unit 6 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 6 Learning Outcomes   show close


6.1 The Birth of Modern Turkey  

• Reading: Columbia University: S. Sadi Seferoglu’s “Mustafa Kemal Atatürk”

  Link: Columbia University: S. Sadi Seferoglu’s “Mustafa Kemal Atatürk” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and study the information on this webpage.  Use this resource to study the conditions surrounding the birth of modern Turkey.  Please note that this reading also covers topics outlined in subunit 6.2 and sub-subunits 6.2.1 through 6.2.3.
   
  Studying this reading should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

6.1.1 The Treaty of Sèvres  

• Reading: History Learning Site’s “The Treaty of Sèvres”

  Link: History Learning Site’s “The Treaty of Sèvres” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the brief text.  Focus on how and why Anatolia was divided up in the Treaty of Sèvres.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this reading.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

6.1.2 The National Pact  

• Reading: Erkut Aldeniz’s “The War of Independence”

  Link: Erkut Aldeniz’s “The War of Independence” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read this brief article.  Focus on the provisions of the National Pact.
   
  You should spend approximately 15-20 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

6.1.3 Nationalism  

6.2 Atatürk  

6.2.1 The Six Principles of Kemalism  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 6.1.  In particular, review the section “Founder of the Republic,” and identify the six principles of Kemalism.

6.2.2 Atatürk and Dictatorship  

• Reading: Today’s Zaman: Ihsan Dagi’s “Was Ataturk a Dictator? Ask Him”

  Link: Today’s Zaman: Ihsan Dagi’s “Was Ataturk a Dictator? Ask Him” (HTML)
  
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read this entire article.  In considering whether Ataturk was a dictator, make sure you think also about what a dictator is in a general sense.
   
  This reading should take approximately 15 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

6.2.3 Atatürk’s Aspirations for Turkey  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 6.1.  Review the resource for information on how Ataturk hoped to change Turkey.

6.3 Reform of the Qajar Dynasty  

• Reading: New York University: Shiva Balaghi’s “A Brief History of the 20th-Century Iran”

  Link: New York University: Shiva Balaghi’s “A Brief History of the 20^th-Century Iran” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article.  Focus on Iran’s constitutional reforms under the Qajars.  This resource also covers the topic outlined in sub-subunits 6.4.1.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

6.4 The Pahlavi Dynasty  

6.4.1 Reza Shah  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 6.3.  As you review the reading, focus on how Reza Shah came to power and the principles by which he governed in Iran.

6.4.2 Mohamed Mossadeq  

• Web Media: Democracy Now’s “Stephen Kinzer on the History of BP/British Petroleum and Its Role in the 1953 Iran Coup”

  Link: Democracy Now’s “Stephen Kinzer on the History of BP/British Petroleum and Its Role in the 1953 Iran Coup” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view this entire video.  Focus on the reasons why Mossadeq ascended to power, his policy proposals, and the reasons for the coup against him.
   
  Viewing this video and pausing to take notes should take approximately 45 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

6.5 The Islamic Revolution of 1979  

• Reading: UCLA International Institute: Abbas Milani’s “From the Shah to the Ayatollah, Continuities and Ruptures”

  Link: UCLA International Institute: Abbas Milani’s “From the Shah to the Ayatollah, Continuities and Ruptures” (MP3)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and listen to the entire podcast to learn about the causes, composition, and consequences of the Revolution.
   
  You should spend approximately 45 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: iTunes U: Columbia University: Professor Richard Bulliet’s “Lecture 24: The Islamic Republic”

  Link: iTunes U: Columbia University: Professor Richard Bulliet’s “Lecture 24: The Islamic Republic” (iTunes U)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and select “View in iTunes for “Lecture 24: The Islamic Republic.”  As you view the lecture, focus on the causes, composition, and consequences of the Revolution.
   
  You should spend approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

Unit 7: Independence, Authoritarianism, and the Struggle to Constitute New Identities  

After World War II, many states of the Middle East became independent from direct European control for the first time.  The leaders of these states were faced with the challenge of constituting national identities and legitimizing their power.  In an attempt to accomplish these goals, they generally employed an authoritarian strategy of governance.  In this section, you will investigate authoritarianism, as practiced in the Middle East since the end of European colonialism.  In addition to the constitution of national identities and the legitimation of new governments, issues include control of domestic populations, the influence of foreign powers, economic growth, and civil and regional conflict. 

Unit 7 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 7 Learning Outcomes   show close


7.1 Arabism  

• Reading: “United Arab Republic”

  Link: “United Arab Republic” (PDF)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above to download the PDF file.  Please read the entire text (8 pages).  Focus on the reasons for the formation and disintegration of the United Arab Republic.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: This resource is accessible under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license and the original version can be found here 

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

7.2 Lebanon  

7.2.1 Ethnic Groups  

• Web Media: New York Times’ “Lebanon’s Religious Mosaic”

  Link: New York Times’ “Lebanon’s Religious Mosaic” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and then select “Take a Closer Look” to access the map.  This map reflects participation in Lebanon’s elections of 2005.  Examine the participation of each ethnic group in each phase of the election.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

7.2.2 French Policy  

• Reading: Universite Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth’s Centre Interculturel Euro-Libanais: Marie-Joëlle Zahar’s “Power Sharing in Lebanon”

  Link: Universite Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth’s Centre Interculturel Euro-Libanais: Marie-Joëlle Zahar’s “Power Sharing in Lebanon” (PDF)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, scroll down to the bottom of the webpage, and click on “Power Sharing in Lebanon (Marie-Joëlle Zahar)” to download the PDF.  Please read the entire text (27 pages).  This resource also covers the topics outlined in sub-subunits 7.2.3 and 7.2.4. 
   
  Reading and taking notes should take approximately 2 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

7.2.3 Confessional Politics  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 7.2.2.  Consider the advantages and disadvantages of confessional politics.  Focus on the rationale for adopting a confessional system.

7.2.4 Civil War  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 7.2.2.  Focus on the causes of the civil war, the terms of the Ta’if Accord, and the rationale and consequences of Israel’s intervention.

7.2.5 Hizballa  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project: Lara Deeb’s “Hizballa: A Primer”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project: Lara Deeb’s “Hizballa: A Primer” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article.  Focus on the role of Hizballa in the various stages of Lebanon’s recent history.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 2 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

7.3 Egypt  

7.3.1 Nasserism  

• Reading: Middle East Policy Council: Ahmed S. Hashim’s “The Egyptian Military, Part One: From the Ottomans through Sadat” and “The Egyptian Military, Part Two: From Mubarak Onward”

  Link: Middle East Policy Council: Ahmed S. Hashim’s “The Egyptian Military, Part One: From the Ottomans through Sadat” (HTML) and “The Egyptian Military, Part Two: From Mubarak Onward” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the links above, and read each article in its entirety.  For the second article, “The Egyptian Military Part Two,” make sure to click on the “next” link at the bottom of each page to read all 10 pages of the article.  Focus on the ideology and policy agenda of Nasserism and the ways in which that ideology and policy agenda evolved under Nasser, Sadat, and Mubarak.  Consider especially the role played by external factors.
   
  Studying these resources should take approximately 4 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

7.3.2 Al-infitah  

• Reading: Photius Coutsoukis’ “Egypt: The Politics of Economic Strategy”

  Link: Photius Coutsoukis’ “Egypt: The Politics of Economic Strategy” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text to learn about the rationale for and consequences of al-infitah.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

7.3.3 The Camp David Accords  

• Reading: PBS News Hour’s Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: “Peace Efforts”

  Link: PBS News Hour’s Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: “Peace Efforts” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article, which discusses the reasons for entering into the negotiations and the provisions of the agreement.
   
  This reading should take less than 15 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

7.4 Syria  

• Web Media: PBS Frontline’s “Syria Undercover: The Regime”

  Link: PBS Frontline’s “Syria Undercover: The Regime” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and watch Part II “The Regime.”  Please note that this resource also covers the topic outlined in sub-subunit 7.4.2.
   
  Viewing this video and pausing to take notes should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

7.4.1 Ba’ath Party  

• Reading: Countries Quest’s “History, Baath Party Rule”

  Link: Countries Quest’s “History, Baath Party Rule” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article to learn about the ideology of the Ba’ath Party.  This resource also covers the topic outlined in sub-subunit 7.4.2.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

7.4.2 Hafez Asad  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 7.4 and 7.4.1.  Focus on Asad’s strategies for preserving power and his government’s policy toward Israel.

7.5 Iraq  

7.5.1 Saddam Hussein  

• Reading: BBC News: Gerald Butt’s “Saddam Hussein: His Rise to Power”

  Link: BBC News: Gerald Butt’s “Saddam Hussein: His Rise to Power” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article to discover how Saddam came to power and how he had maintained power.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this reading.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

7.5.2 Iran-Iraq War  

• Reading: Global Security: John Pike’s “Iran-Iraq War 1980-1988”

  Link: Global Security: John Pike’s “Iran-Iraq War 1980-1988” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text for a better understanding of the causes of the war and its consequences.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 2 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

Unit 8: Oil and the Political History of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf States  

The political history of Saudi Arabia differs dramatically from that of the rest of the Middle East.  First, Saudi Arabia was never colonized by European states, and, second, it sits on the world’s largest known oil reserves.  In this unit, you will investigate the role of oil in Saudi politics and in the broader region.  You will also explore Saudi Arabia’s attempt to synthesize Wahhabism, monarchy, and modernization.

Unit 8 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 8 Learning Outcomes   show close


8.1 Wahhabism  

8.1.1 History  

• Reading: Zackary M. Heern’s “The Middle East and Islam: Wahhabism”

  Link: Zackary M. Heern’s “The Middle East and Islam: Wahhabism” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire webpage to learn about the origin and spread of Wahhabism.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource. 
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

8.1.2 Primary Tenets  

• Reading: Christopher M. Blanchard’s “The Islamic Traditions of Wahhabism and Salafiyya”

  Link: Christopher M. Blanchard’s “The Islamic Traditions of Wahhabism and Salafiyya” (PDF)
             
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, scroll down, and click the article title to download the PDF file. Read the entire report (6 pages).  As you read, please focus on the primary tenets of Wahhabism.
   
  You should spend approximately 45 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

8.2 Saudi Government  

• Web Media: Carnegie Council: Bernard Haykel and Joanne J. Myer’s “Islam in Saudi Arabia’s Politics” and Robert Lacey’s “Inside the Kingdom: Kings, Clerics, Modernists, Terrorists, and the Struggle for Saudi Arabia”

  Link: Carnegie Council: Bernard Haykel and Joanne J. Myer’s “Islam in Saudi Arabia’s Politics” (MP3) and Robert Lacey’s “Inside the Kingdom: Kings, Clerics, Modernists, Terrorists, and the Struggle for Saudi Arabia” (MP3)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the links above, and view these videos in their entirety to learn about the Saudi royal family’s strategies for governance and the influence of Islam on the society and the state.  Please note that these resources cover the topics outlined in sub-subunits 8.2.1 and 8.2.2.
   
  Studying these resources should take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

8.2.1 Role of the Civil War in Yemen  

• Reading: Global Security: John Pike’s “North Yemen Civil War (1962-1970)”

  Link: Global Security: John Pike’s “North Yemen Civil War (1962-1970)” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article.  Focus on the reasons for Saudi Arabia’s and Egypt’s entry into the war.
   
  Studying this reading should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

8.2.2 Role of Oil in Saudi Politics  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 8.2.  In particular, the role of oil in Saudi politics is covered in Robert Lacey’s “Inside the Kingdom: Kings, Clerics, Modernists, Terrorists, and the Struggle for Saudi Arabia.”

8.3 OPEC  

• Reading: The Daily Bell: “Organizing of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)”

  Link: The Daily Bell: “Organizing of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text.  Focus on the reasons for the founding of OPEC and the influence it wields over global politics.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

Unit 9: Israel/Palestine: Origins of the Conflict  

In the late 19^th century, a group of European Jews, led by Theodor Herzl, birthed a nationalist movement called Zionism, which had the goal of securing a national homeland for the Jewish people.  After several candidates were considered, these Zionists settled on Palestine as the optimal location for this homeland.  As waves of Jewish migrants began to arrive in Palestine, a resistance movement emerged among the indigenous people and their allies in the surrounding Arab societies.
 
In this unit, you will investigate the origins of the Arab-Israeli conflict, the role played by the British, the ideology animating Zionism, and the approach taken to settling Palestine by early Zionist migrants.

Unit 9 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 9 Learning Outcomes   show close


9.1 Historical Claims  

• Reading: Aish.com: Rabbi Ken Spiro’s “Jerusalem: Jewish and Muslim Claims to the Holy City”

  Link: Aish.com: Rabbi Ken Spiro’s “Jerusalem: Jewish and Muslim Claims to the Holy City” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article, which discusses the Jewish and Palestinian claims to Palestine and the role that Jerusalem plays in each of their historical narratives.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this reading.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

9.2 Ottoman Rule  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The Land and the People”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The Land and the People” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text.  Focus on the size of the Jewish and Arab populations under the Ottomans and the Ottoman policy toward Jewish migration.
   
  You should spend approximately 15-20 minutes on this reading.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

9.3 The Development of the Palestinian Identity  

• Reading: Global Oneness’s “Palestinian People”

  Link: Global Oneness’s “Palestinian People” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the brief article to learn about how and why the Palestinian identity emerged over time and how it has changed.
   
  Studying this reading should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

9.4 Zionism  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “Zionism”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “Zionism” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and use this resource as an overview for the Zionist movement and the definition of Zionism.  Please note that this resource should also be used for subunits 10.3 and 10.4.
   
  You should spend approximately 15-20 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Jewish Virtual Library: Moshe Maor’s “The History of Zionism”

  Link: Jewish Virtual Library: Moshe Maor’s “The History of Zionism” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text to learn about the origins of Zionism and on its different political strands.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: Vimeo: Professor Zachary Lockman’s “A Brief History of Zionism”

  Link: Vimeo: Professor Zachary Lockman’s “A Brief History of Zionism” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view the whole video; it is a comprehensive history of Zionism and of the ongoing issues affecting the movement.
   
  Viewing this video and pausing to take notes should take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Mideast Web’s “Zionism: Definition and History” and “Israel, Palestine, and the Israel-Palestine Conflict: A Brief History, Part I”

  Links: Mideast Web’s “Zionism: Definition and History” (HTML) and “Israel, Palestine, and the Israel-Palestine Conflict: A Brief History, Part I” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the links above, and read both webpages in their entirety.  These resources can be used for all of the subunits in Unit 9.  Use these resources to get an overview of the Arab-Israeli conflict.
   
  Studying these resources should take approximately 3 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Daniel J. Castellano’s A Brief History of the Arab-Israeli Conflict

  Link: Daniel J. Castellano’s A Brief History of the Arab-Israeli Conflict (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read all of Part I.  This resource can be used for all of the subunits in Unit 9.  Use this resource to get an overview of the Arab-Israeli conflict.  Then, click on the “Continue to Part II” link, and complete that reading as well.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 3 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

9.5 Balfour Declaration  

• Reading: Institute for Historical Review: Robert John’s “Behind the Balfour Declaration”

  Link: Institute for Historical Review: Robert John’s “Behind the Balfour Declaration” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article.  Focus on the provisions of the Balfour Declaration and Britain’s rationale for issuing it.
   
  You should spend approximately 3 hours on this reading.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

9.6 Sharif Husayn  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 9.4.  Focus on the concessions made by Sharif Husayn to Zionism and the conditions of those concessions.

9.7 Chaim Weizmann  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 9.4.  Focus on the reasons for Weizmann’s success in advancing the Zionist cause.

9.8 Early Jewish Immigration  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 9.4.  Focus on the characteristics and ideology of the early Jewish immigrants to Palestine.

9.9 Land Acquisition  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 9.4.  Focus on the strategies used by the Zionists to acquire ownership over land.

9.10 The British Mandate in Palestine  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The British Mandate in Palestine”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The British Mandate in Palestine” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text.  Focus on the strategy and progress made by Palestinians and Jews during this period.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

9.11 The Passfield White Paper  

• Reading: Mideast Web’s “The Passfield ‘White Paper’”

  Link: Mideast Web’s “The Passfield ‘White Paper’” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text to learn about the provisions of the Passfield White Paper and how it was circumvented.
   
  You should spend approximately 1 hour studying this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

9.12 Arab Revolt  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 9.4.  Focus on the causes of the Arab revolt.

9.13 Partition Proposals  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 9.4.  Focus on who made the proposals and on what was promised to the Palestinians and the Jews.

Unit 10: Israel/Palestine: Independence and War  

In 1947, the UN issued a partition proposal for Palestine and, the next year, Israel declared independence.  Three military conflicts characterized this period as (1) Palestinians and Israelis joined together to expel the British from Palestine, (2) Israelis and Palestinians fought a civil war in Palestine, and (3) the newly established state of Israel fought a war against its neighbors.  The Palestinians were soundly defeated in this conflict and were left to rely on traditional Arab powers to pursue their interests.  When this policy failed, the Palestinians formed the Palestinian Liberation Organization in an effort to represent itself.  Meanwhile a series of wars were fought between Israel and the surrounding states, ending with a historic peace treaty between Egypt and Israel.
 
In this unit, you will investigate Israel’s successful struggle for independence and resistance to that independence among Palestinians and the nations of the broader Middle East.  

Unit 10 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 10 Learning Outcomes   show close


10.1 The Birth of Israel  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 9.4.  Please take approximately 1 hour to review these resources, and focus on the civil war with the Palestinians and the reasons for the Israeli victory.

10.2 The UNSCOP Partition Plan  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The United Nations Partition Plan”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The United Nations Partition Plan” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire webpage.  Focus on the role of the U.S. in crafting the plan, as well as the Palestinian and Zionist response to it.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

10.3 The War of 1948  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 9.4.  Please spend approximately 30 minutes reviewing these resources, and focus on the reasons for the Israeli victory over the surrounding Arab states.

10.4 The Suez Crisis of 1956  

Note: This topic is covered by the resources assigned below subunit 9.4.  Please spend approximately 30 minutes reviewing these resources, and focus on the plan devised by the English and the French and the outcome of the operation.

10.5 The PLO  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The Palestine Liberation Organization”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The Palestine Liberation Organization” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link, and read the entire text to learn about the origin and strategies of the PLO.
  
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

10.6 The War of 1967  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The June 1967 War”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The June 1967 War” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text.  Focus on the Origin and consequences of the 1967 War.  For this topic you should also use the resources assigned below subunit 9.4.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

10.7 The Occupation  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The Occupied Territories/Jerusalem”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The Occupied Territories/Jerusalem” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text.  Focus on the strategies used by Israel to control the Occupied Territories.  For this topic you should also use the resources assigned below subunit 9.4.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

10.8 The War of 1973  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The October 1973 War/Camp David I”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The October 1973 War/Camp David I” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text to learn about the causes and consequences of the war.  Please note that this reading also covers the topic outlined in subunit 10.9.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

10.9 The Camp David Accords (1978)  

Note: This topic is covered by the resource assigned below subunit 10.8.  Focus on the reasons the parties came together and the commitments made by each side.

Unit 11: Israel/Palestine: Occupation and Negotiation  

In 1987, Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip began an indigenous uprising against the Israeli occupation of those territories.  In response to this uprising, called the intifada, a series of negotiations began between the Israeli government and various Palestinian leaders.  The negotiations continued from 1991 through 2001, with agreements being alternately signed and violated.  After negotiations failed at Taba in 2001, Israel adopted a new, unilateral policy toward the Palestinians, called “Disengagement.” 

In this unit, you will explore the origins and consequences of the intifada, the peace process, and the Israeli Disengagement Plan.  In addition, you will investigate possible solutions to the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Unit 11 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 11 Learning Outcomes   show close


11.1 The Intifada (1987)  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The Intifada”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The Intifada” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the text to study the origins of the intifada and the tactics it employed.  This topic is also covered by the resources assigned below subunit 9.4.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

11.2 The Oslo Accords  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The Oslo Accords”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The Oslo Accords” (HTML)
  
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article on the provisions of the Oslo Accords and on whether each side kept its commitments.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Mideast Web’s “Modern Israel and Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (Arab-Israeli Conflict): A Brief History”

  Link: Mideast Web’s “Modern Israel and Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (Arab-Israeli Conflict): A Brief History” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire webpage, which discusses the Accords primary provisions and the extent to which they were implemented.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 2 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

11.3 Ehud Barak and Yasser Arafat at Camp David and Taba  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “Camp David II”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “Camp David II” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text, which discusses the provisions of the agreement proposed at Camp David and Taba and the reasons for the break down in the negotiations.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

11.4 The Second Intifada  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The Fall 2000 Uprising”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project’s “The Fall 2000 Uprising” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text.  Focus on the causes of the uprising.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

11.5 The Israeli Disengagement Plan  

• Web Media: University of California TV: Burke Lecture: Amira Hass’s “The Israeli Policy of Separate Development”

  Link: University of California TV: Burke Lecture: Amira Hass’s “The Israeli Policy of Separate Development” (YouTube)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view this entire lecture.  Focus on the strategy of Israel’s disengagement plan and on whether it has been successful.
   
  Viewing this lecture and pausing to take notes should take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

11.6 Alternatives  

• Web Media: Democracy Now’s “Former Israeli Prime Minister Shlomo Ben Ami Debates Outspoken Professor Norman Finkelstein on Israel, the Palestinians, and the Peace Process”

  Link: Democracy Now’s “Former Israeli Prime Minister Shlomo Ben Ami Debates Outspoken Professor Norman Finkelstein on Israel, the Palestinians, and the Peace Process” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view the entire video.  Focus on the prospects for peace and the barriers to it.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: Carnegie Council: Sari Nusseibeh and Joanne J. Myers’ “Once Upon a Country: A Palestinian Life”

  Link: Carnegie Council: Sari Nusseibeh and Joanne J. Myers’ “Once Upon a Country: A Palestinian Life” (Flash) (MP3)
  
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view the entire video.  Focus on the possible approaches to a peace agreement.
   
  You should spend approximately 1 hour on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.

  Submit Materials

Unit 12: Economic and Political Liberalization  

Since the 1970s, there has been pressure on Middle Eastern states—emanating both from within and from outside the Middle East—to liberalize economically and politically.  In this unit, you will identify the primary components of economic and political liberalization, investigate the origin of liberalization and the agenda driving it, and consider impact of these policies on particular societies in the region.

Unit 12 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 12 Learning Outcomes   show close


12.1 Economic Restructuring  

• Reading: Carnegie Council: Vali Nasr’s “Forces of Fortune: The Rise of the New Muslim Middle Class and What It Will Mean for Our World”

  Link: Carnegie Council: Vali Nasr’s “Forces of Fortune: The Rise of the New Muslim Middle Class and What It Will Mean for Our World” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view the entire video.  Focus on the arguments for and against statism (state intervention in the economy) and liberalization (shrinking the state, removing barriers to free trade and foreign investment, privatizing ownership of state-run enterprises).
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: UCLA International Institute: Joel Beinin’s “The Egyptian Intifada in Historical Perspective”

  Link: UCLA International Institute: Joel Beinin’s “The Egyptian Intifada in Historical Perspective” (HTML) (MP3)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, read the brief article, and listen to the entire podcast.  Focus on the relationship between Egypt’s economic policies and Egyptian politics.
   
  Listening to this podcast and reading this text should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project: Joel Beinin’s “Egyptian Textile Workers Confront the New Economic Order”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project: Joel Beinin’s “Egyptian Textile Workers Confront the New Economic Order” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article to learn about the effects of liberalization on textile workers.
   
  Studying this reading should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

12.2 Political Restructuring or Democratization  

• Reading: New York University: Ellen Lust-Okar’s “Why the Failure of Democratization? Explaining ‘Middle East Exceptionalism’”

  Link: New York University: Ellen Lust-Okar’s “Why the Failure of Democratization? Explaining ‘Middle East Exceptionalism’” (PDF)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, scroll down the webpage to the date March 3rd, and click on link to "Why the Failure of Democratization? Explaining 'Middle East Exceptionalism" to download the PDF file.  Please read the entire text (36 pages).  As you read, try to identify the obstacles to democratization in the Middle East.
   
  You should spend approximately 3 hours studying this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: Carnegie Council: John L. Eposito’s “The Future of Islam”

  Link: Carnegie Council: John L. Esposito’s “The Future of Islam” (Flash)
    
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view the entire video.  Focus on Esposito’s critique of the claim that Islam and democracy are incompatible.
   
  You should spend approximately 1 hour on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: The Brookings Institution: Shadi Hamid’s “The Struggle of Middle East Democracy”

  Link: The Brookings Institution: Shadi Hamid’s “The Struggle of Middle East Democracy” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text, which discusses the reasons for the recent manifestation of democratic movements.
   
  You should spend approximately 1 hour studying this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project: Mona El-Ghobashy’s “Egypt’s Paradoxical Elections,” Samer Shehata’s “The Brotherhood Goes to Parliament,” and Samer Shehata and Joshua Stacher’s “Boxing in the Brothers”

  Links: Middle East Research and Information Project: Mona El-Ghobashy’s “Egypt’s Paradoxical Elections”, (HTML) Samer Shehata’s “The Brotherhood Goes to Parliament”, (HTML) and Samer Shehata and Joshua Stacher’s “Boxing in the Brothers” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the links above, and read all 3 articles in their entirety.  These readings will help you gain a better understanding of the impact of the Muslim Brotherhood on democratization in Egypt.
  
  Studying these resources should take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

Unit 13: Women and Gender in Islam  

The issue of women and gender has long been central to Western views of the Middle East.  In this unit, you will investigate the relationship between colonialism and European views of Muslim women.  You will also consider the centrality of veiling to the discourse of women’s liberation in the Middle East.  You will also consider the extent to which women have been successful in exerting power and gaining liberties in the Middle East.

Unit 13 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 13 Learning Outcomes   show close


13.1 European View of Muslim Women  

• Reading: Common Dreams: Katharine Viner’s “Feminism as Imperialism: George Bush Is Not the First Empire-Builder to Wage War in the Name of Women”

  Link: Common Dreams: Katharine Viner’s “Feminism as Imperialism: George Bush Is Not the First Empire-Builder to Wage War in the Name of Women” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text, which discusses the way that feminism has been used to justify Western colonialism.  Please note that this reading also covers the topic outlined in subunit 13.2.
   
  Studying this reading should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: PBS’s “What Factors Determine the Changing Roles of Women in the Middle East and Islamic Societies?”

  Link: PBS’s “What Factors Determine the Changing Roles of Women in the Middle East and Islamic Societies?” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article.  Focus on the differences among Middle Eastern societies with respect to the status and rights of women.  Please note that this reading also covers the topic outlined in subunit 13.2.
   
  You should spend approximately 15-20 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

13.2 Relationship between Feminism and Colonialism  

Note: This topic is covered by the readings assigned below subunit 13.1.  Focus on the way feminism has been used to justify colonialism.

13.3 Veiling  

• Web Media: PBS’s “Global Connections: The Middle East”

  Link: PBS’s “Global Connections: The Middle East” (QuickTime)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view this entire video clip.  Consider the reasons for veiling and compare veiling to patterns of dress for women in the West.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

13.4 Women’s Movements in the Contemporary Middle East  

• Reading: Foreign Policy: The Middle East Channel: Dalia Mogahed’s “Evaluating Women’s Freedom in the Middle East”

  Link: Foreign Policy: The Middle East Channel: Dalia Mogahed’s “Evaluating Women’s Freedom in the Middle East” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article, which addresses trends that prevail across the Middle East as well as the ways in which women’s rights vary across the region.
   
  Studying this reading should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Tom Dispatch: Juan Cole and Shahin Cole’s “The Women’s Movement in the Middle East”

  Links: Tom Dispatch: Juan Cole and Shahin Cole’s “The Women’s Movement in the Middle East” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article, which discusses what the Arab Spring has meant for women’s freedom.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

Unit 14: Islamic Revivalism  

Modern Islamist movements in the Middle East self-identify as revivalist movements, hearkening back to a golden age of Islam in the Middle Ages.  In reality, these movements are profoundly modern, emerging in response to a variety of modern phenomena.  In this unit, you will investigate the origins and growth of Islamic revivalism in the Middle East, with particular attention to Osama bin Laden and al-Qaeda.

Unit 14 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 14 Learning Outcomes   show close


14.1 Definition of Islamism  

• Reading: Mideast Web’s “Islamism”

  Link: Mideast Web’s “Islamism” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text, which addresses different types of Islamism with particular attention to their view of the relationship between religion and politics and of the use of violence.
   
  You should spend approximately 45 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

14.2 Distinction between Islam and Islamism  

• Reading: University of Notre Dame’s OpenCourseWare: Professor Asma Afsaruddin’s “Revivalism and Reform”

  Link: University of Notre Dame’s OpenCourseWare: Professor Asma Afsaruddin’s “Revivalism and Reform” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire webpage.  Focus on the different types of Islamic revivalism and on their relationship to Islam.
  
  You should spend approximately 1 hour studying this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: The reading above is released under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike License 3.0 (HTML). 

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: The Orange Grove: John Bunzl’s Islam, Judaism, and the Political Role of Religions in the Middle East

  Link: The Orange Grove: John Bunzl’s Islam, Judaism, and the Political Role of Religions in the Middle East (PDF)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and select “Islam, Judaism, and the Political Role of Religions in the Middle East” to download the PDF.  Please read pp. 5-7 of the introduction.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: The reading above is released under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike License 3.0 (HTML). 

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Middle East Policy Council: Dr. Lise Storm’s “The Dilemma of the Islamists: Human Rights, Democratization, and the War on Terror”

  Link: Middle East Policy Council: Dr. Lise Storm’s “The Dilemma of the Islamists: Human Rights, Democratization, and the War on Terror” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article.  Make sure you click on the “next” link at the bottom of each page to read through all six pages.  Focus on the causes of radicalization and on the distinction between “good” and “bad” Islamists.
  
  Studying this resource should take approximately 2 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

14.3 Muslim Brotherhood  

• Web Media: PBS Frontline’s “Revolution in Cairo”

  Link: PBS Frontline’s “Revolution in Cairo” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and watch the second part of the video called “The Brothers.”  Focus on the origin and history of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

14.4 al Qaeda  

• Reading: PBS’s “Brief History of al Qaeda” and PBS Frontline’s “A Biography of Osama Bin Laden”

  Link: PBS’s “Brief History of al Qaeda” (HTML) and PBS Frontline’s “A Biography of Osama Bin Laden” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the links above, and read the entirety of each webpage to learn about the history of al Qaeda and on the radicalization of Osama bin Laden.
   
  You should approximately 1 hour on these resources.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

14.5 9/11  

• Reading: The Atlantic: Richard Lewis’s “What Went Wrong?” and The Nation: Edward W. Said’s “The Clash of Ignorance”

  Links: The Atlantic: Bernard Lewis’s “The Roots of Muslim Rage” (HTML) and The Nation: Edward W. Said’s “The Clash of Ignorance” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the links above, and read each article in its entirety.  For “The Roots of Muslim Rage” make sure to click on “next” to access all 6 pages of the article.  For “The Clash of Ignorance,” make sure to click on “next” to access all 3 pages of the article.  Focus on the US response to the 9/11 attacks.  Consider the basis of Lewis’ and Said’s disagreement.
   
  Studying these readings should take approximately 4 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: MSNBC: Andrea Mitchell Reports: “Saudi Arabia’s Questionable Ties to 9/11”

  Link: MSNBC: Andrea Mitchell Reports: “Saudi Arabia’s Questionable Ties to 9/11” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view the entire video, which addresses the role of the Saudi government in the 9/11 attacks and the credibility of the evidence.
   
  Viewing this video should take less than 15 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

Unit 15: The Wars in Afghanistan (2001) and Iraq (2003)  

After the attacks of September 11, 2001, the United States and its allies responded by (among other things) intervening militarily in Afghanistan and Iraq.  In this unit, you will investigate the reasons for these interventions and their impact on the region.  In order to understand the ongoing war in Iraq, it is necessary to first understand the causes and consequences of the Iraq war of 1990.

Unit 15 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 15 Learning Outcomes   show close


15.1 U.S. Hegemony  

• Web Media: YouTube: LSE’s “A Broken Middle East: A Wasted Decade of War on Terror”

  Link: YouTube: LSE’s “A Broken Middle East: A Wasted Decade of War on Terror” (YouTube)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view the video from the beginning to 53:30 minutes.  Keep in mind that this was recorded prior to Arab Spring.  Focus on U.S. priorities in the Middle East and how it pursued those priorities.
   
  Viewing this video and pausing to take notes should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please resect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: Center for Strategic and International Studies’ “Global Security Forum: How Will the United States Engage in the Middle East after Iraq and Afghanistan?”

  Link: Center for Strategic and International Studies’ “Global Security Forum: How Will the United States Engage in the Middle East after Iraq and Afghanistan?” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, listen to the audio, and consider the current challenges to U.S. hegemony in the Middle East.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please resect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

15.2 Dual Containment  

• Reading: CATO Institute: Barbara Conry’s “America’s Misguided Policy of Dual Containment in the Persian Gulf”

  Link: CATO Institute: Barbara Conry’s “America’s Misguided Policy of Dual Containment in the Persian Gulf” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read this article that discusses the policy of dual containment and Conry’s assessment of its success.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please resect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

15.3 U.S. policy toward Iraq  

15.3.1 The Gulf War (1990)  

• Reading: PBS Frontline: The Gulf War: “Chronology” and PBS’s “The Persian Gulf War”

  Link: PBS Frontline: The Gulf War: “Chronology” (HTML) and PBS’s “The Persian Gulf War” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the links above, and read these entire articles, which review the most significant moments in the Gulf War.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on these resources.
   
  Terms of Use: Please resect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Concord Learning Systems: Dr. David A. Deese’s “Persian Gulf War”

  Link: Concord Learning Systems: Dr. David A. Deese’s “Persian Gulf War” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article, which discusses the causes and consequences of the war.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please resect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  The Saylor Foundation does not yet have materials for this portion of the course. If you are interested in contributing your content to fill this gap or aware of a resource that could be used here, please submit it here.

  Submit Materials

• Reading: History.com’s “Persian Gulf War”

  Link: History.com’s “Persian Gulf War” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article, which addresses the causes and consequences of the war.
   
  Studying this resource should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please resect the copyright and terms of use displayed on the webpage above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

15.3.2 The 2003 Iraq Invasion  

• Web Media: University of California Irvine: Lecture on “2003 Iraq Invasion”

  Link: University of California Irvine: Lecture on “2003 Iraq Invasion” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view the entire video lecture.  Focus on the causes and consequences of the war.
   
  Viewing this video and pausing to take notes should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Middle East Forum: The Middle East Quarterly: David A. Patten’s “Is Iraq in a Civil War?”

  Link: Middle East Forum: The Middle East Quarterly: David A. Patten’s “Is Iraq in a Civil War?” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article on the origin of the civil war and the chances that the conflict will re-emerge.
  
  Studying this resource should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: The Atlantic: James Fallows’ “Blind into Baghdad”

  Link: The Atlantic: James Fallows’ “Blind into Baghdad” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article to learn about what was and was not considered in the planning of the war.
   
  You should spend approximately 2 hours studying this reading.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: PBS: Bill Moyers’ “Buying the War”

  Link: PBS: Bill Moyers’ “Buying the War” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, read the brief introductory text on the webpage, select the “Watch the video” link, and view all 5 parts of the video series.  You may also click on the “Transcript” link and read along with the transcript.  Focus on how the U.S. government made the case for war to the public and the role of the media in this process.
  
  Reading the introduction and transcript and viewing all five parts of the video should take approximately 2 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: PBS’s “Who Are the Insurgents?”

  Link: PBS’s “Who Are the Insurgents?” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article to learn about the ideology and composition of the insurgency.
  
  You should spend approximately 15-20 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: The Daily Beast: Leslie H. Gelb’s “How to Save Iraq”

  Link: The Daily Beast: Leslie H. Gelb’s “How to Save Iraq” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article.  Consider Gelb’s proposal for Iraq and why it may or may not be viable.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage
  displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Center for Strategic and International Studies: Anthony H. Cordesman, Adam Mausner, Sam Khazai, Peter Alsis, and Charles Loi’s “The Real Outcome of the Iraq War: US and Iranian Strategic Competition in Iraq”

  Link: Center for Strategic and International Studies: Anthony H. Cordesman, Adam Mausner, Sam Khazai, Peter Alsis, and Charles Loi’s “The Real Outcome of the Iraq War: US and Iranian Strategic Competition in Iraq” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, read the introductory text on the main webpage, and select the link titled “Download the PDF of ‘The Real Outcome of the Iraq War: US and Iranian Strategic Competition in Iraq.”  Please read the entire text (128 pages), which addresses the effect of the Iraq War on Iran’s regional influence.
  
  Studying this reading should take approximately 7 hours to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: NPR: Tom Bowman’s “As the Iraq War Ends, Reassessing the U.S. Surge”

  Link: NPR: Tom Bowman’s “As the Iraq War Ends, Reassessing the U.S. Surge” (MP3)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, read the brief introductory text on the webpage, and listen to the podcast.  Focus on what the “surge” was and on the various assessments of its success.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Global Spin: Tony Karon’s “Iraq after the War: Maliki’s Attack on Sunni Leaders Suggests a Dark, Divided Future”

  Link: Global Spin: Tony Karon’s “Iraq after the War: Maliki’s Attack on Sunni Leaders Suggests a Dark, Divided Future” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article, which focuses on the danger of a renewed civil war in Iraq.
  
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this resource.
  
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

15.4 U.S. Policy toward Afghanistan  

• Web Media: YouTube: The Real News’ “Brzezinski on the Afghan War, Part 1,” “Brzezinski on the Afghan War, Part 2,” and “Brzezinski on the Afghan War, Part 3”

  Links: YouTube: The Real News’ “Brzezinski on the Afghan War, Part 1”, (YouTube) “Brzezinski on the Afghan War, Part 2”, (YouTube) and “Brzezinski on the Afghan War, Part 3” (YouTube)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the links above, and view Parts 1-3 of this video series, which explores how the U.S. might leave Afghanistan peacefully.  Consider the relevance of the Soviet war in Afghanistan for the United States’ current war there.
  
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on these resources.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: PBS’s “Afghanistan: The Forgotten War”

  Link: PBS’s “Afghanistan: The Forgotten War” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view the entire video.  Focus on the American goals in Afghanistan and the nature of the insurgency.
  
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

15.4.1 Connection between Afghanistan and Pakistan  

• Web Media: PBS Frontline’s “The Secret War” and Azmat Khan’s “What Kind of Ally Is Pakistan?”

  Link: PBS Frontline’s “The Secret War” and Azmat Khan’s “What Kind of Ally Is Pakistan?” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the first link above, and view the entire video on “The Secret War.”  Focus on Pakistan’s role in both assisting and combatting the
  Taliban, as well as the effects of the “Drone War.”  Afterward, click on the second link.  Follow the links within the texts to the articles.  Read them, focusing on the basis of the U.S.-Pakistan alliance and the reasons why the relationship between these two countries have recently been strained.
   
  You should spend approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes studying these resources.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

15.4.2 Consequences of U.S. Withdrawal  

• Reading: Asia Times: MK Bhadrakumar’s “There’s More to Peace than Taliban”

  Link: Asia Times: MK Bhadrakumar’s “There’s More to Peace than Taliban” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article, which discusses the likely consequences of a U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
   
  You should spend approximately 15-20 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Middle East Foreign Policy’s “Reaction to Announcement of U.S. Withdrawal from Afghanistan” and Mark N. Katz’s “Will the Taliban Rise Again?”

  Links: Middle East Foreign Policy’s “Reaction to Announcement of U.S. Withdrawal from Afghanistan” (HTML) and Mark N. Katz’s “Will the Taliban Rise Again?” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the links above, and read both articles in their entirety.  Focus on how conflict might be minimized in the aftermath of the U.S. withdrawal, as well as on the rise, decline, and possible resurgence of the Taliban.
   
  Studying these resources should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

Unit 16: The Arab Uprisings of 2011  

On December 17, 2010, a Tunisian fruit vendor named Mohamed Bouazizi set himself on fire in frustration and in protest of the lack of opportunity available to him in Tunisia.  This set off a political uprising in Tunisia that soon spread to Egypt, Libya, and across whole of the Middle East.  In this unit, you will investigate the causes of these uprisings, the primary threats to democratization in the region, and the systems of government that are likely to emerge from these movements.

Unit 16 Time Advisory   show close


Unit 16 Learning Outcomes   show close


• Reading: Jadaliyya: Michael Hudson’s “Awakening, Cataclysm, or Just a Series of Events? Reflections on the Current Wave of Protest in the Arab World?”

  Link: Jadaliyya: Michael Hudson’s “Awakening, Cataclysm, or Just a Series of Events? Reflections on the Current Wave of Protest in the Arab World” (HTML) (MP3)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article.  You may also click on the “Listen” link to listen to the podcast (30:34 minutes).  Please note that this resource covers the topics for all of the subunits in Unit 16.
   
  Reading this text and listening to the podcast should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: Free Video Lectures: Harvard University’s “Inside the Arab Awakening”

  Link: Free Video Lectures: Harvard University’s “Inside the Arab Awakening” (YouTube)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view the entire video lecture.  Please note that this resource covers the topics for all of the subunits in Unit 16.
   
  Viewing this lecture and pausing to take notes should take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

16.1 Tunisia  

• Reading: UCLA Center for Near Eastern Studies: Lotfi Ben Rejeb’s “The Tunisian Revolution and Implications for U.S. and Tunisian Relations”

  Link: UCLA Center for Near Eastern Studies: Lotfi Ben Rejeb’s “The Tunisian Revolution and Implications for U.S. and Tunisian Relations” (MP3)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, read the brief introductory paragraph, and listen to the entire podcast to learn about the causes and consequences of the Tunisian uprising.
   
  You should spend approximately 45 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

16.1.1 Causes  

• Reading: Middle East Research and Information Project: Nadia Marzouki’s “From People to Citizens in Tunisia”

  Link: Middle East Research and Information Project: Nadia Marzouki’s “From People to Citizens in Tunisia” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire text to study the causes of the uprising in Tunisia.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

16.1.2 Influence outside Tunisia  

• Reading: Pacific Standard: Philip N. Howard’s “The Arab Spring’s Cascading Effects”

  Link: Pacific Standard: Philip N. Howard’s “The Arab Spring’s Cascading Effects” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article to learn about the effects of the Tunisian uprising across the Middle East.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

16.2 Egypt  

• Web Media: PBS’s “Revolution in Cairo”

  Link: PBS’s “Revolution in Cairo” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and watch the first part of the video called “Revolution in Cairo.”  Focus on the causes of the uprising, the government’s response to it, and the prospects for democracy in Egypt.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: University of California at Irvine’s OpenCourseWare: “Speaking Out on Egypt”

  Link: University of California at Irvine’s OpenCourseWare: “Speaking Out on Egypt” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view this entire video.  Focus on the causes of the uprising, the government’s response to it, and the prospects for democracy in Egypt.
   
  Viewing this video and pausing to take notes should take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: Documentary Storm’s “Egypt: A Nation in Waiting”

  Link: Documentary Storm’s “Egypt: A Nation in Waiting” (YouTube)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and download the video to watch.  This video addresses the aspects of the Mubarak government that precipitated the uprising.
   
  You should spend approximately 1 hour on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Time: Ayman Mohyeldin’s “A Year after Egypt’s Uprising: One Revolution, Two Perspectives”

  Link: Time: Ayman Mohyeldin’s “A Year after Egypt’s Uprising: One Revolution, Two Perspectives” (HTML)
  
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article, which addresses the predicament laid out by Mohyeldin.
   
  You should spend approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

16.3 Libya  

• Reading: Reuters’ “Timeline: Libya’s Uprising against Muammar Gaddafi”

  Link: Reuters’ “Timeline: Libya’s Uprising against Muammar Gaddafi” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, study the timeline, and use this as an overview of the Libyan uprising.
   
  You should spend approximately 15-20 minutes studying this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: YouTube: Aljazeera’s “Fault Lines: The U.S. and New Middle East: Libya”

  Link: YouTube: Aljazeera’s “Fault Lines: The U.S. and New Middle East: Libya” (YouTube)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view this entire video, which discusses the causes of the uprising and the reasons for the NATO intervention.
   
  You should spend approximately 30 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Middle East Policy Council’s “Is Libya’s Future at Risk?”

  Link: Middle East Policy Council’s “Is Libya’s Future at Risk?” (HTML)
  
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the article.  Focus on the prospects for democracy in Libya.
   
  You should spend approximately 15-20 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: MSNBC’s “A Year after Revolt: Libya Mired in Factional Fighting”

  Link: MSNBC’s “A Year after Revolt: Libya Mired in Factional Fighting” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and study the information on this webpage.  Focus on the prospects for establishing a stable government in Libya.
   
  You should spend approximately 15-20 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

16.4 Bahrain  

• Web Media: YouTube: Aljazeera’s “Featured Documentaries: Bahrain: Shouting in the Dark”

  Link: YouTube: Aljazeera’s “Featured Documentaries: Bahrain: Shouting in the Dark” (YouTube)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view the entire video, which addresses the reasons for the uprising, the government’s response, and the relevance of conflict between Sunnis and Shias.
   
  Viewing this video lecture and pausing to take notes should take approximately 1 hour to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

16.5 Syria  

• Web Media: UCLA International: Professor James Gelvin’s “Whither Syria? Historian Gelvin Looks at Arab Uprisings”

  Link: UCLA International: Professor James Gelvin’s “Whither Syria? Historian Gelvin Looks at Arab Uprisings” (MP3)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and listen to the entire podcast.  Focus on Gelvin’s account of the Syrian regime and the role it played in causing the uprising.
   
  Listening to this podcast and pausing to take notes should take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Web Media: MSNBC’s “Up with Chris Hayes”

  Link: MSNBC’s “Up with Chris Hayes” (Flash)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and view the entire video, which discusses the makeup of the uprising in Syria.
   
  You should approximately 15 minutes on this resource.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

  See a broken link? Please let us know!

• Reading: Middle East Policy Council’s “Running Out of Options in Syria”

  Link: Middle East Policy Council’s “Running Out of Options in Syria” (HTML)
   
  Instructions: Please click on the link above, and read the entire article, which considers how, if at all, the U.S. and NATO could intervene in Syria.
   
  Studying this reading should take approximately 30 minutes to complete.
   
  Terms of Use: Please respect the copyright and terms of use on the webpage displayed above.

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Final Exam  

• Final Exam: The Saylor Foundation’s “POLSC321 Final Exam”

  Link: The Saylor Foundation’s “POLSC321 Final Exam”
  
  Instructions: You must be logged into your Saylor Foundation School account in order to access this exam.  If you do not yet have an account, you will be able to create one, free of charge, after clicking the link. 

  See a broken link? Please let us know!