Remembering the Great War in the Middle East: From Turkey and Armenia to Australia and New Zealand

This book explores the conflicts, myths, and memories of the Great War in Ottoman Turkey and their legacies in society and politics. It is the third volume in a series dedicated to analyzing the Ottoman Great War and the Armenian Genocide. The memory of the First World War in the post-Ottoman regions is still immediate, as it was the formative experience that ended Ottoman rule. The volume analyzes why these entanglements became possible, how shared or contradictory memories have been constructed, and how differing historiographies have developed. It aims to place the "long last Ottoman decade" (1912-22) at the center of a history of Greater Europe, encompassing Europe, Russia, and the Ottoman world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The book delves into the intricate web of conflicts, myths, and memories that emerged from the Great War in Ottoman Turkey, unraveling their profound impact on society and politics. As the third installment in a series dedicated to the comprehensive analysis of the Ottoman Great War and the Armenian Genocide, it sheds light on the enduring legacies of this pivotal period. In Australia, New Zealand, and the post-Ottoman Middle East, the memory of the First World War retains a vivid immediacy that has gradually faded in Europe. For these regions, the First World War marked a transformative experience, marking the end of Ottoman rule. This volume embarks on a profound exploration of the complex dynamics that shaped these entanglements, examining why they became possible, how shared or conflicting memories have been constructed over the past century, and how diverse historiographies have evolved.

Remembering the Great War in the Middle East seeks to redefine our understanding of the "long last Ottoman decade" (1912-22), placing it at the center of a broader narrative that encompasses Europe, Russia, and the Ottoman world. By examining the conflicts, myths, and memories of this era, the book offers a fresh perspective on the interconnectedness of these regions during a pivotal period of history. It sheds light on the ways in which the Great War shaped the political, social, and cultural landscapes of the Middle East, and how these legacies continue to resonate today.

The book explores the various dimensions of the Great War's impact on Ottoman Turkey, including the military, political, and social consequences. It examines the role of the Ottoman Empire in the conflict, the strategies employed by its armies, and the devastating toll it took on the country's infrastructure and population. The book also delves into the myths and misconceptions that have persisted about the war, such as the notion that the Ottoman Empire was solely responsible for the Armenian Genocide.

Through a comprehensive analysis of primary sources, secondary literature, and historical archives, the book offers a nuanced and empathetic portrayal of the Ottoman Turks and their experiences during the Great War. It challenges the stereotypes and prejudices that have often been associated with this period, highlighting the complexities and nuances of the Ottoman society and its relationship with its neighbors.

Remembering the Great War in the Middle East also explores the enduring legacies of the war in the post-Ottoman Middle East. It examines how the war shaped the political landscape, leading to the emergence of new states and the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire. The book also explores the impact of the war on the cultural and social fabric of the region, examining the ways in which it influenced literature, art, and music.

In conclusion, Remembering the Great War in the Middle East is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh perspective on a critical period of history. By delving into the conflicts, myths, and memories of the Great War in Ottoman Turkey, the book sheds light on the complex web of factors that shaped this era and its enduring legacies. It is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in understanding the history of the Middle East and the broader interconnectedness of world history.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755639953