History of Jordan

King Abdullah II has cemented his rule amidst an onslaught of threats since he succeeded his father in 1999, and the Syrian civil war has fundamentally shifted the political context of its neighboring countries. This second edition of Robins' accessible and succinct survey of Jordanian political history is an account of a century of events within a country whose fortunes are closely identified with its heads of state.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 330 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2019
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Since the publication of the first edition, significant changes have occurred in the political landscape of Jordan and the Middle East. King Abdullah II has firmly cemented his rule amidst an onslaught of threats that have faced his kingdom since he succeeded his father in 1999. The Syrian civil war has fundamentally shifted the political context of its neighboring countries, with Jordan experiencing a massive population explosion as people moved across the border from Syria. This second edition of Robins' accessible and succinct survey of Jordanian political history is an account of a century of events within a country whose fortunes are closely identified with its heads of state. Beginning in the early 1920s in the Mandate years, and now benefiting from new material on the rise of the Muslim Brotherhood, attempts at democratization, the collapse of the economy, the Jordan Spring, and the refugee crisis, this new edition featuring original research brings Jordan's political history into the twenty-first century.

The early 1920s marked the beginning of a new era in Jordan's political history, with the country emerging as a mandate territory under British rule. The Mandate period saw significant changes and challenges, including the establishment of a modern education system, the development of infrastructure, and the emergence of a new political elite. However, the period also witnessed tensions and conflicts, including the Arab Revolt against British rule and the emergence of nationalist movements.

One of the most significant events of the Mandate period was the establishment of the Jordanian National Assembly in 1921. This assembly was the first representative body in the country's history and played a crucial role in shaping Jordan's political landscape. It was during this period that the country's first constitution was drafted, which laid the foundation for the modern Jordanian state.

The Mandate period also saw the rise of the Muslim Brotherhood in Jordan. Founded in 1928, the Brotherhood quickly became a powerful force in Jordanian politics, advocating for a more conservative and Islamic society. The Brotherhood's influence was particularly strong in the country's universities, where it played a significant role in shaping the political consciousness of young Jordanians.

However, the Mandate period was not without its challenges. The country faced economic difficulties, including a decline in agricultural production and a growing trade deficit. This led to social unrest and political instability, with the emergence of extremist groups and the rise of political violence.

In 1946, Jordan gained its independence from British rule, and King Abdullah I became the country's first king. King Abdullah I was a visionary leader who sought to modernize Jordan and promote its development. He implemented a series of economic reforms, including the establishment of a national bank and the promotion of private sector development. He also worked to promote Jordan's cultural and social development, including the establishment of universities and cultural institutions.

King Abdullah I's reign was marked by significant political stability and economic growth. However, his death in 1951 led to a period of political instability and uncertainty. His son, King Hussein, took over the throne and continued his father's policies of modernization and development. King Hussein also played a key role in Jordan's regional politics, particularly in its relations with Israel and the Arab world.

Under King Hussein's leadership, Jordan experienced significant economic growth and development. The country's infrastructure was improved, and new industries were established. Jordan also became a major player in the Middle East peace process, working to promote peace and stability in the region.

However, King Hussein's reign was also marked by political tensions and conflicts. The country faced a number of challenges, including the rise of extremist groups, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the Gulf War. King Hussein's response to these challenges was often controversial, and he was criticized for his support for Israel and his involvement in the Gulf War.

In 1999, King Abdullah II succeeded his father, King Hussein, as the ruler of Jordan. King Abdullah II was a young and charismatic leader who promised to continue his father's policies of modernization and development. He also sought to promote greater political stability and social harmony in the country.

Under King Abdullah II's leadership, Jordan has experienced significant economic growth and development. The country's infrastructure has been improved, and new industries have been established. Jordan has also become a major player in the Middle East peace process, working to promote peace and stability in the region.

However, King Abdullah II's reign has also been marked by political tensions and challenges. The country has faced a number of threats, including the rise of extremist groups, the Syrian civil war, and the COVID-19 pandemic. King Abdullah II has responded to these challenges with a combination of political and economic measures, including the establishment of a national security strategy and the implementation of economic reforms.

In conclusion, Jordan's political history has been shaped by a series of significant events and developments. From the establishment of the Jordanian National Assembly in the early 1920s to the rise of the Muslim Brotherhood in the Mandate period, the country has experienced a century of political change and development. King Abdullah II's reign has been marked by significant economic growth and development, as well as political tensions and challenges. Jordan's political future remains uncertain, but the country's strong economic and social foundations provide a solid foundation for continued growth and progress.

Weight: 558g
Dimension: 152 x 227 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108448383
Edition number: 2 Revised edition