Laura Etheredge: 8 books

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 traditions are revered. With over half of its population under the age of 30, however, Iran also embraces...

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 development of Egypt’s present-day ethos. While engendering much turbulence, this layered past has...

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 of Islam and the Muslim people covers the extreme breadth of the topic while still maintaining a detailed...

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 of traditional and modern, most of these states have become wealthy with oil money, which has allowed...

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 turbulence of the 20th and 21st centuries eclipse their rich culture and society, the Iraqi people endeavor...

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, Yemen is home to predominantly rural citizens and is one of the poorest countries in the world. Within...

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 Mediterranean and Arab influences. Home to diverse populations who have experienced centuries of exposure...

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 of the world’s major monotheistic religions and as well as a home to ancient sacred monuments and...