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Professor Asher Susser

This course will discuss the developments in the Middle East from the early 20th century to the present. It will discuss the rise and retreat of Arab nationalism, the problems of internal cohesion of the Arab states, issues of religion and state, and the evolution of Islamist politics. It will also focus on the evolution of the Arab-Israeli conflict and its impact on the region and will conclude with an in depth analysis of the “Arab Spring” by placing these contemporary revolutionary events in their historical context.

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This course will discuss the developments in the Middle East from the early 20th century to the present. It will discuss the rise and retreat of Arab nationalism, the problems of internal cohesion of the Arab states, issues of religion and state, and the evolution of Islamist politics. It will also focus on the evolution of the Arab-Israeli conflict and its impact on the region and will conclude with an in depth analysis of the “Arab Spring” by placing these contemporary revolutionary events in their historical context.

Please note that this course builds upon a previous course - The Emergence of the Modern Middle East - Part I (https://www.coursera.org/learn/modern-middle-east-1/home/welcome)

Learn about the history of the Middle East for a deeper understanding of current regional developments!

This course will temporarily close for enrollment from March 1st, 2022 to August 31st, 2022. During this time, the course will be closed for new enrolments. All of the course materials will continue to be able available to previously enrolled learners; however, the course staff will not provide support in the Discussion Forums during this period.

Best,

The Tel Aviv University Team

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What's inside

Syllabus

WEEK 1
Independence and revolutionary politics in the Arab world
WEEK 2
The beginnings of the Arab-Israeli conflict
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WEEK 3
The escalation and de-escalation of the Arab-Israeli conflict from 1948 to 1973
WEEK 4
The escalation and de-escalation of the Arab-Israeli conflict from 1973 to the present
WEEK 5
The Middle East from 1967 to the present including the Arab Spring

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Examines developments in the Middle East since the early 20th century, providing a comprehensive historical understanding
Led by Professor Asher Susser, a recognized expert in Middle Eastern studies
Suitable for individuals seeking to deepen their knowledge of this critical region and its impact on global affairs
Builds upon a previous course, but provides an immersive experience for new learners as well
Advises learners to take a prerequisite course first, ensuring a strong foundation
temporarily close for enrollment from March 1st, 2022 to August 31st, 2022

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Reviews summary

Well-received middle east history

Learners say that this course covers modern Middle Eastern history in great depth. They especially appreciate the content's factual, unbiased approach and clear explanations. Many learners mention that they began with little background knowledge but still found the material accessible. They also note that the course has quizzes and exams to test retention. One qualm mentioned by a few is that there could be more quizzes for better knowledge retention. Overall, learners highly recommend this course and believe it is well-suited for beginners and experienced students alike.
Includes quizzes and exams to test knowledge.
"Overall a great experience learning from lectures, quizzes and video clips."
"However, I noticed a certain bias in favor of Israel, something that, in my opinion, reduces slightly the credibility of the course"
"This is a very good course, and Professor Susser is a very engaging speaker. The course is inevitably biased towards the Israeli perspective, and misses out the development of several states in the region."
"Every good."
Appropriate for learners with little background in Middle Eastern history.
"I started from an extremely low level of knowledge and understanding about the Middle East and am struck that there are likely to be others like me, as it wasn't covered as a topic when I was at school"
"I found the speaker to be factual and non judgemental, and his interest and enthusiasm for the subject was very engaging."
"Amazing course. For all the people passionate about History and the Middle East this course is a must."
Provides factual and unbiased information on Middle Eastern history.
"The course offers a comprehensive explanation about the Arab-Israeli conflict and the Arab spring. Lots of information, critique of some current interpretations on the issues. Excellent course."
"The course content was so explanatory to assist my understanding. This was greatly assisted by the skills and abilities of Professor Susser in presenting the video material in a clear manner that accompanied the excellent course text book written by the professor and Duygu Atlas."
"If one really wants to know about the Middle East & how it remains in constant conflict this course is highly recommended."
Some learners believe there could be more quizzes for better retention.
"more quizzes would help information retention."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Emergence of the Modern Middle East - Part II with these activities:
Compile a glossary of key terms related to the Middle East
This activity will help you build a solid foundation of the essential terminology used in the study of the Middle East.
Browse courses on Middle East
Show steps
  • Read the course syllabus and identify key terms.
  • Use a dictionary or online resources to define the terms.
  • Organize the terms into a glossary.
Review the history of the Middle East from the early 20th century to the present
This activity will help you recall essential concepts, events, and figures in the history of the Middle East.
Show steps
  • Read the course syllabus and skim through the textbook.
  • Watch documentaries or videos on the history of the Middle East.
  • Create a timeline of significant events in the Middle East.
Engage in discussion forums and participate in online debates
This activity will allow you to exchange ideas, challenge perspectives, and deepen your understanding of the course material.
Browse courses on Middle East
Show steps
  • Join the course discussion forums.
  • Participate in online debates and share your insights.
  • Read and respond to the posts of other students.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Analyze primary sources related to the Arab-Israeli conflict
This activity will enhance your understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of the Arab-Israeli conflict.
Browse courses on Arab-Israeli Conflict
Show steps
  • Visit the websites of reputable organizations such as the United Nations, the BBC, or the New York Times.
  • Read articles, speeches, and official documents related to the conflict.
  • Identify the key players, events, and issues involved.
Attend workshops on topics related to the Middle East
This activity will expose you to new ideas, connect you with experts, and enhance your understanding of the region.
Browse courses on Middle East
Show steps
  • Research and identify relevant workshops.
  • Register for the workshops that interest you.
  • Attend the workshops and actively participate.
Create a presentation on the evolution of Islamist politics in the Middle East
This activity will help you synthesize your understanding of Islamist politics and develop your communication skills.
Browse courses on Islamist Politics
Show steps
  • Research the topic and gather information from credible sources.
  • Organize your content into a logical structure.
  • Create visual aids and slides.
  • Practice your presentation and deliver it to an audience.
Read and review 'The Arab Awakening' by Eugene Rogan
This book provides a comprehensive and nuanced account of the Arab Spring, helping you deepen your understanding of the region's recent history.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes on the main arguments and themes.
  • Identify the key events and figures discussed in the book.
  • Write a summary of the book, reflecting on its implications for the future of the Middle East.
Develop a research project on a topic related to the course
This activity will enable you to delve deeply into a specific topic, conduct research, and demonstrate your analytical and critical thinking skills.
Browse courses on Middle East
Show steps
  • Identify a topic that interests you.
  • Conduct a literature review to gather background information.
  • Develop a research question and methodology.
  • Collect and analyze data.
  • Write a research paper and present your findings.

Career center

Learners who complete The Emergence of the Modern Middle East - Part II will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Professor
Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. This course may be useful for Professors specializing in Middle Eastern studies, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the region's history, politics, and culture.
Historian
Historians research, analyze, interpret, and write about the past. This course may be useful for Historians specializing in the Middle East, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the region's history from the early 20th century to the present day.
Political Scientist
Political Scientists study politics, government, and public policy. This course may be useful for Political Scientists specializing in the Middle East, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the region's history, politics, and culture from the early 20th century to the present day.
Researcher
Researchers conduct research and analyze data to provide insights and recommendations to policymakers and decision-makers. This course may be useful for Researchers specializing in the Middle East, as it provides a deep understanding of the region's history, politics, and culture.
Writer
Writers create written content for a variety of purposes, including fiction, non-fiction, journalism, and marketing. This course may be useful for Writers specializing in the Middle East, as it provides a deep understanding of the region's history, politics, and culture.
Intelligence Analyst
Intelligence Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret information to provide insights and recommendations to policymakers and decision-makers. This course may be useful for Intelligence Analysts specializing in the Middle East, as it provides a deep understanding of the region's history, politics, and culture.
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Service Officers represent their countries abroad, working to promote their nation's interests and build relationships with other countries. This course may be useful for Foreign Service Officers specializing in the Middle East, as it provides a deep understanding of the region's history, politics, and culture.
Public Policy Analyst
Public Policy Analysts research, analyze, and develop public policies. This course may be useful for Public Policy Analysts specializing in the Middle East, as it provides a deep understanding of the region's history, politics, and culture.
Museum curator
Museum Curators plan and manage exhibitions, care for collections, and conduct research. This course may be useful for Museum Curators specializing in Middle Eastern art or history, as it provides a deep understanding of the region's history, politics, and culture.
Activist
Activists work to promote social or political change. This course may be useful for Activists working on issues related to the Middle East, as it provides a deep understanding of the region's history, politics, and culture.
Journalist
Journalists research, write, and report on current events and issues. This course may be useful for Journalists specializing in the Middle East, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the region's history, politics, and culture from the early 20th century to the present day.
Lawyer
Lawyers advise and represent clients in legal matters. This course may be useful for Lawyers specializing in international law or human rights law, as it provides a deep understanding of the Middle East's legal systems and the region's history and politics.
Teacher
Teachers educate students at all levels, from kindergarten through college. This course may be useful for Teachers specializing in Middle Eastern studies, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the region's history, politics, and culture.
Archivist
Archivists play a vital role in preserving and organizing historical documents and artifacts. This course may be useful for Archivists interested in specializing in the Middle East, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the region's history, politics, and culture from the early 20th century to the present day.
Librarian
Librarians help people find and access information. This course may be useful for Librarians specializing in Middle Eastern studies, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the region's history, politics, and culture.

Reading list

We've selected 30 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Emergence of the Modern Middle East - Part II.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of the Arabs from the earliest civilizations to the present day. It is written in a clear and engaging style and is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the region.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of the Middle East from the early 19th century to the present day. It covers a wide range of topics, including the rise of nationalism, the Arab-Israeli conflict, and the impact of Western imperialism.
Provides a detailed account of the Arab-Israeli conflict from its origins to the present day. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand this complex and long-running conflict.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the role of Islam in Middle Eastern politics. It covers a wide range of topics, including the relationship between religion and state, the rise of political Islam, and the impact of the Arab Spring.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of the Middle East from the earliest times to the present day. It emphasizes the region's interactions with the rest of the world.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of the Middle East from the early 19th century to the present day. It is written in a clear and engaging style and is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the region.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities facing the Middle East in the 21st century. It covers a wide range of topics, including the rise of political Islam, the Arab Spring uprisings, and the impact of globalization.
Provides a concise and accessible overview of the Arab-Israeli conflict. It covers the key events and issues in the conflict and is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the region.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of the Ottoman Empire. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to understand the history of the Middle East.
Examines the rise of Islamism in the Middle East. It provides a comprehensive overview of the history, ideology, and impact of Islamist movements.
Examines the Arab Spring uprisings of 2011. It provides a comprehensive overview of the causes, course, and consequences of the uprisings.
Examines the history of the Middle East from the Ottoman Empire to the present day. It provides a fresh perspective on the region and is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand its history.
Provides indispensable background material and source documents for the study of the Arab-Israeli conflict.
Examines the challenges and opportunities facing the Middle East in the 21st century. It covers a wide range of topics, including the rise of China, the Iranian nuclear program, and the Arab-Israeli conflict.
Provides a concise and accessible overview of the history, politics, and culture of the Middle East. It useful introduction to the region for anyone who wants to learn more about it.
Examines the relationship between the Middle East and the West from the early 20th century to the present day. It covers a wide range of topics, including the oil crisis, the Arab-Israeli conflict, and the war on terror.
Provides a concise and accessible overview of the Middle East's role in world affairs. It covers the region's history, politics, economy, and security challenges.
Provides a concise and accessible overview of the Arab-Israeli conflict. It useful reference tool for anyone who wants to understand this complex issue.
Provides a concise and accessible overview of the history of the Middle East and Islam. It useful introduction to the region for anyone who wants to learn more about it.
Seminal work in the field of postcolonial studies. It argues that the West has constructed a distorted and stereotypical view of the Middle East.
Examines the relationship between the United States and the Middle East from the early 20th century to the present day. It covers a wide range of topics, including the oil crisis, the Arab-Israeli conflict, and the war on terror.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history and evolution of political Islam, a key topic in the course.
Argues that the world is entering a new era of conflict between different civilizations. It has been influential in shaping the debate on the future of the Middle East.
A detailed account of the Six-Day War, a pivotal event in the Arab-Israeli conflict.
A comprehensive and balanced account of the Arab-Israeli conflict, providing valuable insights into its origins and dynamics.
Provides a comprehensive and accessible overview of the history of the Middle East in a global context.

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