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摘要

Beginning with Napoleon's Egyptian campaign and ending with the rise of the Islamic State, McNabb (international relations, Troy Univ., AL; World at War) offers a detailed look at the political and military history of the Middle East with the aim of educating readers about the factors that have resulted in current issues and conflicts. In straightforward text, the book explains the historical origins of modern groups and organizations. The author's in-depth research and use of primary sources result in a vivid narrative that covers military tactics and the state of the political arena within each time period discussed. An extensive bibliography and several maps lend context and provide resources for further research. Laden with quotes and excerpts from military documents, McNabb's chronological presentation of the content gives students an easy way to seek out material on a particular segment of Middle Eastern military history. VERDICT Best for academic libraries with extensive military history collections and graduate programs focusing on the topic; a nice companion to Andrew J. Bacevich's America's War for the Greater Middle East.— Christine Sharbrough, Tewksbury P.L., MA.