The Unfinished History of the Iran-Iraq War: Faith, Firepower, and Iran's Revolutionary Guards

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is a powerful and prominent organization in Iran, founded after the Iranian revolution in 1979. Annie Tracy Samuel's book provides an innovative and compelling history of the IRGC, analyzing the links between war and revolution using the Iran-Iraq War as a focal point. By examining how the Revolutionary Guards have recorded and assessed the history of the war, the book offers an internal view of the organization and demonstrates how analyzing Iran's history provides critical tools for understanding its actions today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 07 June 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), established following the Iranian revolution in 1979, stands as one of the most influential and prominent yet enigmatic organizations within Iran. In her book, Annie Tracy Samuel offers a groundbreaking and captivating account of this organization, utilizing the Iran-Iraq War as a central lens for analysis. Through an in-depth exploration of the Revolutionary Guards' extensive collection of Persian-language publications, Samuel provides an internal perspective of the IRGC, shedding light on their roles and power within contemporary Iran. This approach not only deepens our understanding of the IRGC's significance but also underscores the profound impact of the Iran-Iraq War on the Islamic Republic's present and future. By delving into Iran's historical narrative, the book unveils the critical insights necessary for comprehending its actions in the present day.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) emerged as a powerful entity following the Iranian revolution in 1979. Founded as a response to the country's political and social turmoil, the IRGC quickly gained control of various institutions and resources, solidifying its hold on power. The organization's origins can be traced back to the Iran-Iraq War, which lasted from 1980 to 1988. During this conflict, the IRGC played a significant role in supporting the Iranian government, providing military training and logistics to the Iranian military.

The Iran-Iraq War was a defining moment in the history of the Middle East, with profound implications for the region's political and social landscape. The war resulted in the deaths of millions of people, the displacement of millions more, and the destruction of vast areas of land. It also led to the emergence of new political factions and ideologies, including the rise of extremist groups such as ISIS.

The IRGC's involvement in the Iran-Iraq War was not limited to providing military support. The organization also played a role in shaping the country's political and social landscape. During the war, the IRGC was responsible for suppressing opposition movements and ensuring the government's stability. This role led to the establishment of a authoritarian regime that has been in power in Iran for the past three decades.

The IRGC's influence extends beyond Iran's borders. The organization has been involved in various conflicts and proxy wars throughout the Middle East, including the conflicts in Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon. The IRGC has also been accused of human rights and human rights abuses, including the execution of political dissidents and the suppression of civil liberties.

Despite its power and influence, the IRGC remains a controversial organization. Some see the organization as a necessary tool for ensuring Iran's security and stability, while others view it as a threat to regional and international peace and security. The organization's role in shaping Iran's political and social landscape has also been criticized, with some arguing that it has contributed to the country's authoritarianism and human rights abuses.

In conclusion, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is a powerful and influential organization that has played a significant role in shaping the political and social landscape of Iran and the Middle East. The organization's origins can be traced back to the Iran-Iraq War, which resulted in the deaths of millions of people and the destruction of vast areas of land. The IRGC's involvement in the war led to the establishment of an authoritarian regime that has been in power in Iran for the past three decades. The organization's influence extends beyond Iran's borders, with its involvement in various conflicts and proxy wars throughout the Middle East. Despite its power and influence, the IRGC remains a controversial organization, with some viewing it as a necessary tool for ensuring Iran's security and stability while others view it as a threat to regional and international peace and security.

Weight: 478g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108745789