Iraq Between the Two World Wars

Main Themes and Topics

"Iraq Between the Two World Wars" by Reeva Spector Simon is an insightful examination of the complex interplay of cultural and ideological forces that shaped modern Iraqi history. Simon departs from traditional class-based analyses to explore how the formation of Iraq by the British in 1921, and the subsequent installation of the ex-Ottoman army officers, known as the Sharifians, as the ruling elite, set the stage for the country's turbulent political landscape. The book highlights the emergence of pan-Arabism as the ideological glue intended to unite a nation composed of a myriad of ethnic, religious, and social groups. Key to this transformation were the military institutions and educational systems through which this ideology was propagated, ultimately leading to the aborted 1941 revolt against British influence and laying the groundwork for successive military-dominated regimes, culminating in Saddam Hussein's three-decade rule.

Writing Style and Tone

Reeva Spector Simon employs a scholarly yet accessible writing style, making complex historical events and ideologies understandable to a broad audience. The tone is analytical and objective, providing a nuanced perspective without becoming mired in dense academic jargon. Simon’s approach is methodical, carefully tracing the roots and evolution of Iraqi nationalism and the sociopolitical dynamics at play. The narrative is enriched by Simon's attention to detail and her ability to contextualize historical events within broader regional and global frameworks.

Brief Summary

Reeva Spector Simon’s "Iraq Between the Two World Wars" delves into the pivotal period of Iraq's history following its establishment by the British in 1921. The book examines the rise of the Sharifians, ex-Ottoman officers who became Iraq's ruling class and their efforts to unify the nation's diverse populace under the ideology of pan-Arabism. By focusing on the educational and military institutions as instruments of ideological indoctrination, Simon reveals the roots of the military coups and revolts that have shaped Iraq's modern history. The narrative traces the influence of relationships between Iraqi officers and Germans in Istanbul prior to WWI, highlighting how these connections paved the way for crucial decisions, such as the wartime alliance with militaristic Germany against Britain. The book effectively connects these historical threads to the rise and reign of Saddam Hussein, exploring the continuity and change in Iraq's political ideologies and actions.