Modern History of the Kurds

David McDowall's ground-breaking history of the Kurds from the 19th century to the present day documents the underlying dynamics of the Kurdish question and the struggle for national rights. This fourth edition of the book reflects the developments in the field and the areas that have gained importance and understanding, including new analysis of the Kurdish experience in Syria, the role of political Islam in Kurdish society, and issues surrounding women and gender.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 728 pages
Publication date: 22 April 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

David McDowall's groundbreaking history of the Kurds, spanning from the 19th century to the present day, delves into the intricate dynamics of the Kurdish question. The division of the Kurdish people among modern nation-states in Iraq, Turkey, Syria, and Iran, along with their relentless pursuit of national rights, continues to shape the political landscape of the Middle East. Through extensive research and reliance on primary sources, including documents from The National Archive and insightful interviews with prominent Kurds, the book explores the multifaceted nature of the struggle, emphasizing the interplay between traditional and modern aspects, the significance of local rivalries and leadership within Kurdish society, and the inadequate response of modern states to the rise of Kurdish nationalism. In this revised and updated fourth edition, McDowall delves into the significant transformations that have impacted Kurdish socio-politics over the past two decades. With ongoing updates and the inclusion of substantial new material, the book reflects the evolving developments in the field and the areas that have gained increased importance and understanding. This includes a fresh analysis of the Kurdish experience in Syria, the role of political Islam in Kurdish society, and the complexities surrounding women and gender, shedding light on previously overlooked aspects such as the impact of the women's equality movement and the persistence of patriarchal practices within the Kurdish community. Serving as a cornerstone text for Kurdish Studies, this comprehensive work provides a detailed account of the shifting situation of the Kurds across the Middle East.

Weight: 1084g
Dimension: 158 x 236 x 46 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755600755
Edition number: 4 ed