Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
Did you know that the Algiers Agreement, signed in 1975 between Iraq and Iran, marked a historic turning point in their relations? This unexpected accord not only resolved long-standing disputes but also had a profound impact on the geopolitical landscape of the region. Let’s delve into the details of this extraordinary agreement and its implications … Read more
Sir Mark Sykes, a prominent British diplomat-politician, played a significant role in the Middle East during World War I. He is best known for his involvement in the infamous Sykes-Picot agreement that reshaped the region’s geopolitical landscape. Additionally, Sykes’ perceptions of the Arab inhabitants of Palestine are often a topic of discussion due to their … Read more
John Keane, an Englishman born in 1854, embarked on a remarkable journey in his twenties, venturing extensively through the Hejaz region of Arabia. His written account, “My Journey to Medinah,” provides a unique glimpse into his travels, focusing on a camel caravan pilgrimage from Mecca to Medina. However, within this larger narrative of Arabian exploration, … Read more
Did you know that the 1974 Kurdish Rebellion in Iraq, which aimed to secure autonomy for the Kurdish population, ultimately ended in failure despite initial momentum? The repercussions of this failed uprising had a profound impact on the Kurdish separatist movement, shaping the trajectory of their struggle for self-determination. While the 1974 Kurdish Rebellion may … Read more
Lady Anne Blunt was a pioneering British traveller and writer, who in her seminal work “A Pilgrimage to Nejd,” recounts the rich tapestry of experiences and observations from her travels in the Arabian Peninsula. As one of the first Western women to venture into the heart of the Nejd, now part of modern-day Saudi Arabia, … Read more
In the early 20th century, Gertrude Bell, an indomitable explorer, archaeologist, and diplomat, embarked on a journey that would etch her name into the annals of Middle Eastern exploration and British colonial history. Her seminal work, “The Desert and The Sown,” provides a vivid account of her travels across the diverse landscapes of Greater Syria, … Read more