The conflict and confrontation between Islam and the West have become daily news, but through the ages Muslims, Christians, and Jews have shared more than enmity and war: there is also a rich and textured history of coexistence that has all but disappeared from our collective memory. In a narrative spanning fourteen centuries, Middle East expert Karabell traces the legacy of tolerance and cooperation from the advent of Islam to the present day--from the court of the caliphs in Baghdad, through medieval Spain, a portrait of the Crusades that goes beyond the rivalry of Saladin and Richard Lionheart, to religious autonomy in the Ottoman Empire. As he explores the growing tensions of the modern era, with the rise of Arab nationalism and the redrawing of the Middle East map after World War I, he reminds us that dialogue and friendship have always punctuated times of war and discord. Today, while some Muslims, Christians, and Jews engage in confrontation, others--in Dubai, in Turkey, and around the globe--find common ground. Remembering the legacy of coexistence and recognizing its prevalence even today is a vital ingredient to a more stable, secure world. -- $c Provided by Publisher.

$g Introduction -- $t In the name of the Lord -- $t At the court of the caliph -- $t The sacrifice of Isaac -- $t The crusades -- $t Saladin's jihad? -- $t The philosopher's dream -- $t The lord of two lands -- $t The tide begins to turn -- $t Brave new worlds -- $t The age of reform -- $t Hope and despair -- $t In an otherwise turbulent world -- $t Coda : is Dubai the future? $g Maps -- $g Notes -- $g Bibliography -- $g Acknowledgments -- $g Index.