HTY 446 (0001): History of the Modern Middle East, 1800 – Present

Instructor: Professor Nathan Godfried

Days/Times: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9:00 – 9:50 a.m.

Course Number: 27475

Location: Stevens Hall 155

Description:  Western understanding of the countries and peoples of the Middle East tends to be crisis- driven, generated by the most recent dramatic or violent act in the region.  But comprehending upheavals in Syria and Iraq, the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict, revolutionary protests in various Arab states, and the West’s tense relationship with Iran requires a historical perspective.  We cannot understand contemporary events without taking into account the intricacies of historical change and continuity. This course explores the economic, social, and political transformation of the Middle East from 1800 to the present.  Among the topics of discussion are the Ottoman Empire, Western Imperialism, Arab Nationalism, Zionism, the Israeli- Arab/Palestinian conflict, oil development, Islamic fundamentalism, the “clash of civilizations,” and the “Arab spring.”

Prerequisites: Three credits in History or instructor permission.

General Education Requirements:  Satisfies the Cultural Diversity & International Perspectives requirement.