Subject Area: History

This course is designed to provide a better understanding of the current challenges and transformations in the Middle East by focusing on the role played by the superpower that is the United States. The scope of this course is a broadly conceived and diverse Middle East, stretching from Algeria to Afghanistan. The course explores shifting American interests and policies in the region, from the early republic’s conflict with ‘Barbary’ states to the clash with ‘Rogue’ states after 9/11. The main emphasis is on the post-World War II era and major crises such as, among many others, the Arab-Israeli conflict. Among the major themes that will be developed are energy security; the special relationship with Israel; threats from the Soviet Union, radical nationalism, and Islamic revolution; the projection of military power; peace-making initiatives, and the Global War on Terror.