Mar 28, 2024  
Academic Catalog 2015-2016 
    
Academic Catalog 2015-2016 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

LASS222 History of Modern Middle East 3 cr.


One hundred years ago, the borders of modern Middle Eastern states did not exist. With the conclusion of World War I in 1918, however, the European powers divided up the territories of the former Ottoman Empire and created new borders, new states, and new conflicts. Beginning with the end of World War I, the course explores the development of each Middle Eastern country’s unique identity and history and considers how they interact with one another and with the outside world today. The course treats differences between Sunni and Shia Muslims, Middle Eastern minorities such as Druze, Christians, Alawis, Alevis, and Ismailis, and the differences between Jews, Arabs, Turks, Persians and Kurds. The impact of the Arab-Israeli conflict, oil, the war in Iraq, and the rise of political Islam throughout the region are also considered. The class includes readings, lectures, video, and class discussions in order to illuminate the region’s unique history and political style.

Prerequisites: LALW100; FRSM100

Lecture/Seminar
Culturally Diverse Content
All College Elective