The author cites historical developments in his analysis of the region's problems, strengths, and weaknesses. He critiques Pan-Arabism and Pan-Islamism as myths, analyzes the significance of oil in the region, and the effect of Jewish Zionism on the political balance. Part of the author's conviction that outside forces--that is, the United States--should solve the problems of the region comes from his assertion that Arab elites wasted their opportunities after WWI to improve life for the people there. This is also an international relations analysis; domestic affairs are not extensively discussed, and the colonial powers of France, Germany, the USSR, and especially Britain are viewed as the prime movers of events.

An Empire Falls to Pieces -- Arab Kingdoms and the Desert -- The French Zone of Influence -- Strategy, Oil, and Holy Places -- The Jewish Spearhead -- Pan-Arabism and Pan-Islamism -- Hitler's Shadow on the Middle East -- The Middle East in World War II -- Planning the Postwar Settlement.