From reviews of the first edition: \"A rare combination of insightful analysis and accessibility for the general reader. I recommend it.\" --Glenn Robinson, author of Building a Palestinian State: The Incomplete Revolution \"Kamrava provides an in-depth analysis of not just political history but also a variety of other issues that have plagued this part of the world for so many years and continue to remain unresolved for years to come.\"--Mahmood Monshipouri, author of Islamism, Secularism, and Human Rights in the Middle East \"This is an ambitious, stimulating book that synthesizes a broad range of literature on Middle East history and politics. The author analyzes many important issues in the region, emphasizing the challenges countries face in overcoming historical legacies, developing accountable leadership, recovering from conflict, and developing productive economies.\"--Bradford Dillman, author of State and Private Sector in Algeria: The Politics of Rent-Seeking and Failed Development \"At a time when sensational books on the Middle East fill the market, this is a serious and sober contribution that will help the students and lay people alike. The author approaches the highly charged emotional issues of the Middle East with sensitivity and objectivity. Kamrava should be commended for a very useful and highly needed book.\"--Asad AbuKhalil, author of The Battle for Saudi Arabia: Royalty, Fundamentalism, and Global Power \"Mehran Kamrava has written a very well-researched, accessible, and up to date book. His themes are well chosen; his analysis is cogent and lucid. It is a welcome addition to the literature on Middle East politics.\"--Manochehr Dorraj, author of Middle East at the Crossroads