Saddam Hussein: Portrait of an Arab Leader.

摘要

This study examines how Saddam Hussein's past has shaped his political outlook and how he has used power to make that outlook a reality. His past is reviewed in terms of Iraq's social environment during his youth and his early political career to 1963, the date of the first Baathist Revolution. A major portion of this thesis is devoted to Saddam's use of power in three areas: shaping national will, political power, and military power. Since it is not the author's intent to provide exhaustive coverage of Saddam's political life, only two or three examples will be discussed in each area. Iraq's history of political violence and Western interference helped mold Saddam into the ruthless leader he is today. By investigating his use of power, certain character traits become apparent. He views the world in simple terms, believes violence is the proper response to most situations, and has aggressive regional goals.