Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
Did you know that Iraq’s first Ba’ath Party government in 1963 had a brief reign that had a profound impact on Iraqi history? In just a short period of time, this government implemented policies, faced challenges, and left a lasting legacy that shaped the country’s political landscape for decades to come. Key Takeaways: The Rise … Read more
Gertrude Bell, a remarkable British explorer, archaeologist, and writer, left a profound legacy within Arabian travel literature. Amongst her many adventures and explorations throughout the region, one intriguing destination was the archaeological site of Umm Al Jimal in Jordan. In her compelling narrative “The Desert and the Sown,” Bell provides unique insights into her visit … Read more
Did you know that the Kurdish armed struggle for autonomy in Iraq, which began in 1961, has had a profound impact on the course of Iraqi history? This unexpected and consequential conflict has shaped the struggle for self-determination in the region, leaving a lasting legacy on the Kurdish identity and the broader historical narrative of … Read more
Lady Anne Blunt, a prominent writer, and traveler, documented her journey to Nejd in her book “Pilgrimage to Nejd.” In this captivating travel memoir, Lady Anne Blunt shares her firsthand experiences and observations during her exploration of the city of Hail and her interactions with the locals, particularly her encounters with the Emir and his … Read more
In the interconnected web of global history, certain pivotal events serve as significant turning points, shaping the course of relationships between nations and regions. One such event, set against the backdrop of World War I, was the Battle of Aqaba. This influential campaign was launched in July 1917 by the British lieutenant Colonel Thomas Edward … Read more
John Keane, an Englishman who lived from 1854 to 1937, embarked on a remarkable adventure in his twenties. His extensive travels through the Hejaz region of present-day Saudi Arabia provided a unique perspective on this historically and culturally significant area. Keane documented his experiences in two books, and in this essay, we will delve into … Read more