1. The Middle East In Transition
Chapter 27

2. Section 1: Political Directions
Gamal Abdel Nasser
--- Egyptian Nationalist
--- Arabs should join forces and free themselves of domination by the West

3. Pan-Arabism Muslims oppose growing influence of the West
Goals: Unite all Arabs based on their language and culture
--- Together they can be strong enough to end European domination in the Middle East.
Obstacles: language and culture not enough
--- Loyalty to one’s country is stronger
--- Rich vs. poor nations
Never…..PANS out…….

4. Political Traditions Most nations are Republics
Some Monarchies (Egypt, Iraq, Iran) Saudi Arabia, Jordan still have Kings.
Turkey and Israel are multiparty states, with free elections
Islamic Law
--- Religion, basis of government.
--- Koran is the word of god. SHARIAH: highest authority for Islamic Law
Today, only a few countries rely on Shariah, most follow Western Laws. Shariah is gaining, though!

5. Challenges to Stability
Civil War in Lebanon:
--- One of the most unstable nations of the Middle East
--- Divided power between Muslims and Christians
< less power to Muslims, they were not happy
< 1975 a civil war for next 16 years
--- PLO (Palestine Liberation Organization)
Foreign Invasion:
--- Syria, Israel, Iran and USA become involved
--- Thousands of Lebanese were killed, economy destroyed
, Muslims and Christians agree to share power
Muslims have more power, that makes them happy.

6. The Force of Islamic Tradition
Middle East nations adopt many western cultures
Islamic Movement:
--- Westernism = Evil to many
< Undermines Islamic Society
--- Shariah law, restore religious leaders, enforce strict separation of men and women
--- Spurred a religious revival and balance
Extremism:
--- al Qaeda turns to terror and violence, target USA, also because we aid Israel.
--- Some agree with USA….many nations crack down on Islamic extremist groups.