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A Concise History of the Middle East, Ninth Edition cover art

A Concise History of the Middle East, Ninth Edition

Written by: Arthur Goldschmidt Jr., Lawrence Davidson
Narrated by: Tom Weiner
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Publisher's Summary

The ninth edition of this widely acclaimed text has been extensively revised to reflect the latest scholarship and the most recent events in the Middle East. As an introduction to the history of this turbulent region from the beginnings of Islam to the present day, the book is distinguished by its clear style, broad scope, and balanced treatment. It focuses on the evolution of Islamic institutions and culture, the influence of the West, the modernization efforts of Middle Eastern governments, the struggle for political independence, the course of the Arab-Israeli conflict, the roles of Iraq and Iran in the post-9/11 Middle East, and more.

Arthur Goldschmidt, Jr., is professor emeritus of Middle Eastern history at Pennsylvania State University. He is the author of Modern Egypt: Foundation of a Nation-State and the recipient of the Amoco Foundation Award for Outstanding Teaching and the 2000 Middle East Studies Association Mentoring Award.

Lawrence Davidson is a professor of history at West Chester University. He is the author of several books, including America’s Palestine and Islamic Fundamentalism.

©2010 Westview Press (P)2010 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

What the critics say

“The premier text for the study of the Middle East. Goldschmidt and Davidson’s well-written and solidly argued analyses of the most important and crucial developments of Middle Eastern history and politics…could not be timelier.” (Robert Olson, University of Kentucky)
“I can only offer unmixed praise for the new edition of A Concise History of the Middle East….Sparklingly clear and straightforward for even the ‘general reader.’…Remarkable.” (Mark Seifter, Lehigh Carbon Community College)
“Well-organized, comprehensive, balanced, and exceptionally readable….The authors blend significant historical detail with timely political analysis in a cogent style that is compelling and lucid.” (Donald Wagner, North Park University, Chicago)

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What listeners say about A Concise History of the Middle East, Ninth Edition

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Empathetic

Goldschmidt/Davidson's book is empathetic to all sides, The inclusion of true events isn't bias but rather an attempt at an objective portrayal. The authors' differing views on certain aspects are explored toward the end.

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ELL Written and excellent narration

The content was well written in a simple to understand format. The narration was spot on in cadence and timing. The authors did insert their own opinions from time to time but not in an over bearing way. I get the feeling that it would be near impossible to not make some of your views known when writing about this complex sea of the world. I feel more informed about the history of the Middle East and at the same time just as perplexed about it as ever. I previously assumed that the strife and turmoil was the outcome of oil greed often masked under religion. But it goes much further back than oil and it’s more complex than religious gangsters seeking power and greed. I’m sure I’ll come back to this book time and again. I look forward to an updated version as even in a decade things have changed significantly.

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Biased

History requires an attempt for an unbiased presentation. This “history” is very slanted with personal beliefs. I expect better.

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