1. Problems in the Persian Gulf
(America’s history with the Middle East)

2. Iran and Iraq War
: Iran and Iraq fought a war primarily over religion and land – Sunni/Iraq vs. Shiite/Iran (different Muslim sects).
The war left both countries in massive debt.

3. Iraq invades Kuwait
1990 – Iraq needs $$$. Saddam Hussein invades Kuwait (neighboring oil-rich country). Iraqi troops looted Kuwait on their way to Saudi Arabia.
If Iraq conquered Saudi Arabia they would control ½ of the world’s oil reserves, which would severely threaten U.S. oil supplies.

4. Operation Desert Storm
1991 – under George H.W. Bush – goal was to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi control. U.S. and our allies were successful with massive air and ground offensives.

5. Timeline
Jan. 16, The U.S. and its Allies stage attack against Iraq.
Feb. 23, 1991 – U.S. invades Saudi Arabia with ground troops.
Feb. 28, 1991 – Bush announces cease fire.
Kuwait is liberated!
Patriotism was high and casualties were low (less than 400).

6. Assignment
Desert Storm reading, questions, and map.