Understanding Iraq: The Whole Sweep of Iraqi History, from Genghis Khan's Mongols to the Ottoman Turks to the British Mandate to the American Occupation
by William R. Polk
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Book Summary Information
Author: William R. PolkEdition: Paperback
Audio: English (Original Language); English (Unknown); English (Published)
Published: 2006-03-01
ISBN: 0060764694
Number of pages: 240
Publisher: Harper Perennial
Book Reviews of Understanding Iraq: The Whole Sweep of Iraqi History, from Genghis Khan's Mongols to the Ottoman Turks to the British Mandate to the American Occupation
Book Review: A Tall Order
Summary: 4 Stars
It would be a rare scholar who could bring together all the threads of history of this ancient and fascinating country into one slim volume, and Mr Polk makes a fair attempt at it. His credentials as an academic and policy maker who lived in Baghdad in the 1950s are impeccable, and the book starts particularly well with an explanation of the significance of language, and a canter through prehistory to medieval times. His account of the introduction of Islam, whilst short, is succinct and seems accurate. I was less impressed with his critical account of the doings of first Britain and of the late the United States which, although perhaps factually correct, conveys a one-sided view of the light in which modern Iraqis regard those who have been involved in their history in the last century. In summary, this is an excellent introduction to Iraq, if rather coloured by the author's political opinions. One final criticism: a bibliography would allow the reader to access some of Mr Polk's considerable learning. I would certainly recommend it to anyone looking for a comprehensive overview.
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