"An introduction to the history of this turbulent region from the beginnings of Islam to the present day, this ... text by Arthur Goldschmidt Jr. is distinguished by its clear style, broad scope, and balanced treatment. This book explores the evolution of Islamic institutions and culture, the influence of the West, the modernization efforts of Middle Eastern governments, the struggle of various peoples for political independence, the Arab-Israeli conflict, the reassertion of Islamic values and power, the issues surrounding the Palestinian Question, and the post-9/11 Middle East. The eleventh edition has been fully revised to reflect the most recent events in, and concerns of, the region, including an expanded and more nuanced discussion of the War on Terrorism and the Arab uprisings, coverage of the rise of ISIS, and a new chapter on the growing environmental problems of the region. In addition, the authors have incorporated new scholarship on the early history to provide a fuller picture of the political shifts and socioeconomic concerns of that time."--Back cover.

Includes index.

Introduction -- The Middle East before Muhammad -- The First Muslim revolution -- The early Arab conquests -- The high caliphate -- Shiites and Turks, crusaders and Mongols -- Islamic civilization -- Firearms, slaves, and empires -- European interests and imperialism -- Westernizing reform in the nineteenth century -- The rise of nationalism -- The roots of Arab bitterness -- Modernizing rulers in the independent states -- Egypt and the fertile crescent -- The contest for Palestine -- Israel's rebirth and the rise of Arab nationalism -- War and the quest for peace -- The reassertion of Islamic power -- The Gulf War and the peace process -- The War on Terrorism -- In the season of Arab discontent -- Changing middle eastern environments.