Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/modern-middle-east-1
For anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complex tapestry that is the modern Middle East, Coursera’s “The Emergence of the Modern Middle East – Part I” is an absolute must-take. This course offers a compelling journey through a pivotal period, starting from the ashes of the Ottoman Empire after World War I and extending to the present day. It masterfully navigates the intricate legacies of Ottoman rule and the profound impact of Western imperialism in shaping the region’s current state system.
The course begins by grounding learners in the 19th-century Middle East, examining its societal structures, economic dynamics, and political currents. It delves into the widening gap between Europe and the Middle East during the late 18th century and its subsequent influence, culminating in a discussion of the “Eastern Question” – a crucial concept for understanding the geopolitical shifts of the era.
Moving into the second lesson, “Modernity, Tradition and the Age of Reform,” the course explores the fascinating interplay of these forces. It highlights the filtering of European ideas and the subsequent reform movements within the Ottoman Empire and Egypt. A particularly insightful segment addresses Islamic responses to modernity, exploring the tensions between faith and secularism and the diverse attempts by Islamic thinkers to find a middle ground or, at times, move towards more fundamentalist interpretations.
Lesson three, “The Rise of Nationalism; The Demise of Empire,” traces the development of nationalism, initially an elite concept, and its eventual spread. The course meticulously examines the emergence of Turkish, Egyptian, and Arab nationalist movements. The impact of World War I is powerfully conveyed, marking the end of the Ottoman Empire and the redrawing of the Middle East’s political map.
Finally, “The Creation of the Middle East State System” provides a detailed look at how the region’s borders were shaped by British and French designs. It contrasts the unique liberal experiment in Egypt with the creation of mandates in the Fertile Crescent (Palestine, Trans-Jordan, Iraq, Syria, Greater Lebanon). The course also sheds light on the formation of the Republic of Turkey under Mustafa Kemal and offers an overview of Iran’s history and the influence of Shi’a principles on its political culture.
Overall, “The Emergence of the Modern Middle East – Part I” is an exceptionally well-structured and informative course. It provides essential context for understanding contemporary Middle Eastern affairs, offering a balanced and nuanced perspective on a region often misunderstood. Whether you’re a student of history, international relations, or simply curious about this vital part of the world, this course is highly recommended.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/modern-middle-east-1