How America replaced Britain in the Middle East 1945-2003

About this course

The course examines how the United States entered the Middle East after 1945 and how its growing influence affected Britain and regional politics. Topics include the implications of the Sykes-Picot treaty, the impact of the Second World War, the struggle for power in Syria, Nasserism, the Iranian Revolution and the Gulf wars. Teaching combines tutor presentations, slideshows, group discussion and guided analysis of texts and video clips. The course also considers competing interpretations of the power struggle and the historical reconfiguration of the region after the Second World War.

What you'll learn

• Analyse the post-war reconfiguration of the Middle East
• Identify key historical roots of the Anglo-American power struggle in the region
• Examine contemporary regional politics through the framework of power politics
• Compare opposing arguments about the struggle and its origins

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for newcomers as well as learners with some background knowledge. Participants need a good grasp of English and are expected to take part in group discussions about sensitive subjects with respect and openness towards differing views.

• Suitable for learners new to the subject
• Requires engagement with group and class discussion
• Relevant shared resources may be explored during the course

Before you go

• Learners may bring paper and a pen, tablet or laptop for note-making.
• No preparation outside class is specified.