Let Them Not Return

Main Themes and Topics

Let Them Not Return by David Gaunt is a pivotal contribution to the historical scholarship surrounding the lesser-known atrocities committed during the decline of the Ottoman Empire. The book delves into the mass killings of the indigenous Christian Assyrians, a group that suffered tremendously in the borderlands of present-day Turkey, Iran, and Iraq during and after World War I. Often referred to as the Assyrian genocide or “Sayfo”—the Aramaic word for "sword"—this book aims to elucidate the tragic events that unfolded during this period.

Through a multi-disciplinary approach that includes historical, psychological, and anthropological perspectives, the book seeks to provide an in-depth understanding of the suffering endured by minority groups. The emphasis on Assyrians highlights the broader context of Ottoman violence against minorities, often overshadowed by the more widely recognized Armenian Genocide.

Writing Style and Tone

David Gaunt employs a scholarly yet accessible writing style that meticulously presents historical evidence while ensuring that the gravity of the subject matter is conveyed with respect and sensitivity. The tone throughout the book is one of somber reflection and critical analysis, as it seeks to fill the gaps in our understanding of early 20th-century geopolitical and social upheavals in the Ottoman Empire.

Brief Summary

This edited volume is a groundbreaking and necessary addition to genocide studies. It provides readers with a comprehensive overview of the Assyrian genocide, effectively bringing to light an atrocity that has been inadequately addressed in historical narratives. By compiling various scholarly perspectives, the book not only aims to document the past but also encourages discourse on the continued relevance and implications of these historical events.