Auteur: Laura Etheredge

Given that Islam predominates in over thirty countries around the world, the history of the Islamic world requires a broad perspective. This in-depth look at the history of the religion and culture o …

The dynasties of ancient Egypt’s pharaohs are among the more storied elements of Egypt’s rich heritage, but the long era of foreign rule that followed has in many ways been more crucial to the develo …

A long, often fractious history has shaped relations between present-day Israel and the emerging Palestinian autonomous areas. This area of the MIddle East has a significant role as the cradle of two …

Iran’s cultural and historical significance is unquestionable. The land of celebrated poets such as Rumi and Hafez, as well as the magnificent ruins of Persepolis, it is a place where ancient traditi …

Venerated as the cradle of civilization since the days of ancient Mesopotamia, Iraq served as an intellectual and cultural center in the Arab world for much of its history. Unwilling to let the turbu …

Though smaller than most other Arab countries, the gulf states of Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates represent some of the most fascinating areas of the Middle East. A blend o …

While they share a border and a rich heritage, Saudi Arabia and Yemen are also a study in contrasts. Where Saudi Arabia has a largely urban population that enjoys the benefits of its thriving economy …

While each country’s centrality to the future of Middle East politics and strategy remains unequivocal, the social and cultural traditions of Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan reveal a robust blend of Medit …