History of the M.E.History of the M.E.

In the Beginning: Circa 2000 b.c.eIn the Beginning: Circa 2000 b.c.e

There is said to be a man named There is said to be a man named Abraham who was asked by God to Abraham who was asked by God to kill his sonkill his son

He went to a rock to do it.He went to a rock to do it.

..

Turns out it was a test and he killed a Turns out it was a test and he killed a ram instead.ram instead.

That Rock is now the rock, under the That Rock is now the rock, under the Dome of the Rock, Al Axa Mosque.Dome of the Rock, Al Axa Mosque.

Abraham is believed by believers to Abraham is believed by believers to be the father of all three montheistic be the father of all three montheistic religions, Judaism, Christianity and religions, Judaism, Christianity and IslamIslam

Moses, the Arc of the CovenantMoses, the Arc of the Covenant

Monotheist believe Moses (circa 1300 Monotheist believe Moses (circa 1300 b.c.e) led the Jewish people from b.c.e) led the Jewish people from bondage in Egypt to current-day bondage in Egypt to current-day Israel/Palestine in th Exodus..Israel/Palestine in th Exodus..

On the way, he was given the Ten On the way, he was given the Ten Commandments that he stored in the Commandments that he stored in the Arc. Some believe the arc could Arc. Some believe the arc could smite enemies.smite enemies.

A replicaA replica

The Jews built a temple in Jerusalem The Jews built a temple in Jerusalem and maybe hid the Arc of the and maybe hid the Arc of the Covenant there.Covenant there.

The Babylonians, modern-day Iraq, The Babylonians, modern-day Iraq, destroyed the temple and may have destroyed the temple and may have taken the Arc and melted it down for taken the Arc and melted it down for its gold.its gold.

The Jews rebuilt the temple.The Jews rebuilt the temple.

The first temple, destroyed by The first temple, destroyed by Babylonians (circa 422 b.c.e)Babylonians (circa 422 b.c.e)

His descendants founded the city of His descendants founded the city of Jerusalem and the first temple.Jerusalem and the first temple.– Jews exiled…beginning of 1Jews exiled…beginning of 1stst Diaspora. Diaspora.

Circa 33 A.D.Circa 33 A.D.

Jews believed a messiah would come Jews believed a messiah would come from God.from God.

Jesus was a leader of small group of Jesus was a leader of small group of Jews and he preached a kinder Jews and he preached a kinder gentler God.gentler God.

The region of Israel was ruled by the The region of Israel was ruled by the powerful, tyrannical Romans.powerful, tyrannical Romans.

Jesus was preaching near the temple Jesus was preaching near the temple around Passover (celebrates the around Passover (celebrates the Exodus), a time of previous Exodus), a time of previous disturbances, where lots of Jews disturbances, where lots of Jews gathered there.gathered there.

Remember he had kick butt with Remember he had kick butt with the money changers.the money changers.

He was considered a threat to both He was considered a threat to both the Romans and Jewish leadership. the Romans and Jewish leadership.

Jesus executed about 33 A.D.Jesus executed about 33 A.D.Pontius Pilate the Roman governor had Pontius Pilate the Roman governor had him executed, in the typical Roman way, him executed, in the typical Roman way, crucifixion.crucifixion.

The crucifixion was thought to be done The crucifixion was thought to be done at……the Rock, where Abraham was at……the Rock, where Abraham was suppose to kill his son.suppose to kill his son.

He is thought by believers to be buried He is thought by believers to be buried and then resurrected at the present day and then resurrected at the present day Church of the Holy Sepulture. Church of the Holy Sepulture.

Crucifixion was a preferred execution Crucifixion was a preferred execution method of Romans: caused intense pain method of Romans: caused intense pain

and eventual suffocationand eventual suffocation

The execution ground and burial spot The execution ground and burial spot of Jesus, the Jewish temple and the of Jesus, the Jewish temple and the rock where Abraham was going to kill rock where Abraham was going to kill his son are all a stones his son are all a stones through from each through from each other.other.

Jewish Diaspora.Jewish Diaspora.

The Romans then tore down the The Romans then tore down the temple again. 70 A.D.temple again. 70 A.D.

This begins the This begins the Jewish DiasporaJewish Diaspora. . Jews are driven from Jerusalem and Jews are driven from Jerusalem and settle in many small settlements settle in many small settlements throughout the Middle East and throughout the Middle East and Europe.Europe.

The were continually brutalized.The were continually brutalized.

They were only allowed to work in They were only allowed to work in certain professions.certain professions.

One was lending money with One was lending money with interest, which was forbidden in interest, which was forbidden in Christianity and Islam of the time Christianity and Islam of the time (still is in Islam).(still is in Islam).

This experience in banking became a This experience in banking became a benefit and curse.benefit and curse.

Christianity Spreads 33 A.D. to 400 Christianity Spreads 33 A.D. to 400 A.D. and beyondA.D. and beyond

Slowly at first.Slowly at first.

But the philosophy played well with But the philosophy played well with those under the Roman’s thumb, those under the Roman’s thumb, preaching a life everlasting way preaching a life everlasting way better than this vale of tears.better than this vale of tears.

Christians were heavy proselytizersChristians were heavy proselytizers

By 375 A.D. Christianity was the By 375 A.D. Christianity was the official religion of the Roman Empire.official religion of the Roman Empire.

The pre-Islam Christian WorldThe pre-Islam Christian World

The Christian SchismThe Christian Schism

The Catholic Church split into two in The Catholic Church split into two in about 1000 A.D..about 1000 A.D..

The two major groups became the The two major groups became the Roman Catholic Church and various Roman Catholic Church and various Eastern Orthodox Churches of the Eastern Orthodox Churches of the Byzantium Empire.Byzantium Empire.

Mohammed develops new Mohammed develops new philosophy/Religionphilosophy/Religion

Around 600 a.d. Mohammed was Around 600 a.d. Mohammed was born in Mecca and later moved to born in Mecca and later moved to Medina….Medina….

The two most holy sites in Islam. The two most holy sites in Islam. Western Saudi Arabia is the Muslim Western Saudi Arabia is the Muslim holy land.holy land.

Mecca and MedinaMecca and Medina

Muslim pilgrims pray in the holy city of Mecca on Saturday. Saudi Muslim pilgrims pray in the holy city of Mecca on Saturday. Saudi Arabia began receiving Muslim pilgrims earlier this month in Arabia began receiving Muslim pilgrims earlier this month in

preparation for the annual Haj. Saudi religious authorities preparation for the annual Haj. Saudi religious authorities announced that the Id-al-Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice, which announced that the Id-al-Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice, which follows the Haj pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina will start on follows the Haj pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina will start on

December 30. — AFPDecember 30. — AFP

He established the religion Islam.He established the religion Islam.

Believers believe he is a prophet.Believers believe he is a prophet.

Believers believe that the Koran is Believers believe that the Koran is the literal word from Allah/God that the literal word from Allah/God that was revealed to himwas revealed to him

The period of The period of RamadanRamadan commemorates the month of its commemorates the month of its writingwriting

Shariah LawShariah Lawis based on:is based on:– Koran and its interpretationKoran and its interpretation– What Mohammed taught and the What Mohammed taught and the

examples of he and his immediate close examples of he and his immediate close followers behavior.followers behavior.

– Provides for the basis of all human Provides for the basis of all human behavior.behavior.

Shias vs SunnisShias vs SunnisUpon Mohammed’s death a schism Upon Mohammed’s death a schism developed between two sets of followers developed between two sets of followers that remains:that remains:– Sunnis Sunnis believe that the caliphs, or close believe that the caliphs, or close

followers of Mohammed, who knew hime best, followers of Mohammed, who knew hime best, were the rightful leaders of the religion.were the rightful leaders of the religion.

– ShiitessShiitess believe that Ali, cousin of believe that Ali, cousin of Mohammed, married to Mohammed’s Mohammed, married to Mohammed’s daughter, should be the leader as he carried daughter, should be the leader as he carried the prophets blood as does his descendants.the prophets blood as does his descendants.

Ali did become the fourth Caliph.Ali did become the fourth Caliph.

Battle of KarbalaBattle of KarbalaHusain, Ali’s son, went to attack a Husain, Ali’s son, went to attack a caliphate in 680 and lost, caliphate in 680 and lost, – All his men were killed in battle in All his men were killed in battle in

Karbala, and are seen as martyrs.Karbala, and are seen as martyrs.

The Holy day of Assura, where you The Holy day of Assura, where you see Shias self-flagellating, see Shias self-flagellating, commemorates that battle.commemorates that battle.– Karbala became a holy city to Shiites. Karbala became a holy city to Shiites.

Mosque at KarbalaMosque at Karbala

Shia holiday of Assura Shia holiday of Assura commemorates battle at Karbala commemorates battle at Karbala

and Husain’s martyrdom and Husain’s martyrdom

AssuraAssura

DifferencesDifferences

Because of the direct lineage of Because of the direct lineage of Ayatollahs to MohammedAyatollahs to Mohammed– Shiites will worship at shrines to various Shiites will worship at shrines to various

martyrs and Imams who have died.martyrs and Imams who have died.

Conservative Sunnis see that as Conservative Sunnis see that as sacrilege as they believe only God sacrilege as they believe only God should be worshiped.should be worshiped.

Shiites have Ayatollahs who are descendants of Shiites have Ayatollahs who are descendants of AliAli– Therefore their Koranic interpretations are divine Therefore their Koranic interpretations are divine

through Mohammed.through Mohammed.– SunnisSunnis have mullahs who are just learned layman. have mullahs who are just learned layman.

Ayatollah are religious and political authoritiesAyatollah are religious and political authorities ..Ayatollah Sistani in Iraq is probably the most, at Ayatollah Sistani in Iraq is probably the most, at least one of the most, revered of the Ayatollahs least one of the most, revered of the Ayatollahs and may be keeping Shiites from responding to and may be keeping Shiites from responding to Sunni mosque attacks in Iraq.Sunni mosque attacks in Iraq.

Ayatollah Ruhollah Ayatollah Ruhollah KhomeiniKhomeini : : Orginial leader of the Islamic Orginial leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, led the insurrection Republic of Iran, led the insurrection against the Shah.against the Shah.

Current Supreme leader of Iran: Current Supreme leader of Iran: Calls the shotsCalls the shots

Ayatollah Ali Ayatollah Ali KhameneiKhamenei

The 12The 12thth Imam ImamThe Mahdi, is thought by on group of Shias The Mahdi, is thought by on group of Shias to be missing or hidden (occultation) and to be missing or hidden (occultation) and will return. When he does the judgment will return. When he does the judgment will be upon us. will be upon us. Very similar to the second coming in Very similar to the second coming in Christianity and the coming of the Messiah Christianity and the coming of the Messiah in Judaismin JudaismSunni’s don’t believeSunni’s don’t believe the 12 the 12thth Imam is Imam is the Mahdi, he has not been born yet. Sort the Mahdi, he has not been born yet. Sort of like the difference between Jews and of like the difference between Jews and Christians and the Messiah.Christians and the Messiah.

AnimosityAnimosityBetween the different sects have occurred Between the different sects have occurred throughout history, with throughout history, with – Sunnis believing that Shias were responsible Sunnis believing that Shias were responsible

for allowing Mongols to invade the Arab world, for allowing Mongols to invade the Arab world, and being co-conspirators with the U.S. in and being co-conspirators with the U.S. in occupying the holy places of Islamoccupying the holy places of Islam

Shiites have been the subject of Shiites have been the subject of persecution in the Muslim world.persecution in the Muslim world.– The idea of conservative Sunnis connecting The idea of conservative Sunnis connecting

with Shiites (Iran) is unlikely.with Shiites (Iran) is unlikely.

ShiitesShiites

Shiites make up about 15% of Islamic Shiites make up about 15% of Islamic world and world and – They are only a majority in They are only a majority in Iran.Iran.

Significant populations in Significant populations in – Southern Lebanon (Bekka valley, Hezbollah), Southern Lebanon (Bekka valley, Hezbollah),

Syria, and Syria, and

Pakistan. (a potential ring around the Middle East.Pakistan. (a potential ring around the Middle East.

Shiites ideas of govt vs SunniShiites ideas of govt vs SunniSunnis tend to believe that a Sunnis tend to believe that a government’s main job is to make the government’s main job is to make the nation safe for Islam to flourish.nation safe for Islam to flourish.

Oppression if favorable to civil unrest.Oppression if favorable to civil unrest.– So to conservative Sunnis, the autocratic So to conservative Sunnis, the autocratic

governments of the Middle East or the Taliban governments of the Middle East or the Taliban might not be a bad thing, as long as they keep might not be a bad thing, as long as they keep the society safe for Islam.the society safe for Islam.

– Personal rights are less important than Personal rights are less important than communal rightscommunal rights

Shia view of governmentShia view of government

For Shiites there is no separation For Shiites there is no separation between Mosque and State, between Mosque and State, – It would be absurd, government and civil It would be absurd, government and civil

life are the same, as Ayatollah’s word is life are the same, as Ayatollah’s word is devine.devine.

As would democracy. Why would you As would democracy. Why would you listen to the people, when you have a listen to the people, when you have a semi-divine leader already?semi-divine leader already?

CaveatCaveat

These are VERY broad brush These are VERY broad brush descriptions and beliefs within Islam descriptions and beliefs within Islam vary widely, as they do in vary widely, as they do in Christianity, from very literal to more Christianity, from very literal to more modernistic. modernistic.

I am not religious scholar.I am not religious scholar.

Arab believers in Mohammed Arab believers in Mohammed AroseArose

From the cities of Mecca and Medina From the cities of Mecca and Medina (current-day Saudi Arabia) (current-day Saudi Arabia)

Conquered much of Conquered much of – North Africa, Palestine, Spain.North Africa, Palestine, Spain.

From this time, began a slow demise From this time, began a slow demise of Arab political domination, of Arab political domination, – Arabic, the language of the Koran and Arabic, the language of the Koran and

Islam became a unifying force..Islam became a unifying force..

      Expansion under the Prophet Expansion under the Prophet Mohammad, 612-632Mohammad, 612-632      Expansion during the First Expansion during the First three caliphs, 632-655three caliphs, 632-655      Expansion during the Expansion during the Umayyad Caliphate 661-750Umayyad Caliphate 661-750

In the 20In the 20thth Century Pan-Arabism has Century Pan-Arabism has been the goal of several Arab been the goal of several Arab leaders. including leaders. including – Saddam Hussein, the Muslim Saddam Hussein, the Muslim

Brotherhood and Abdul Nasser.Brotherhood and Abdul Nasser.

Since then, uniting of the Islamic Since then, uniting of the Islamic world has been the goal of the world has been the goal of the Fundamentalists groups like Al Fundamentalists groups like Al Qaeda.Qaeda.

During the European “Dark Ages,” During the European “Dark Ages,” Islamic cities like Damascus (Syria) Islamic cities like Damascus (Syria) and Bagdad were the repository of and Bagdad were the repository of many of the ideas of the Golden Ages many of the ideas of the Golden Ages of Greece and Rome. of Greece and Rome. – These cities were at the pinnacles of These cities were at the pinnacles of

world civilization at the time. Europeans world civilization at the time. Europeans were barbarians in comparison.were barbarians in comparison.

In the 12In the 12thth Century, Century,

The Byzantium The Byzantium (Turkey, Orthodox (Turkey, Orthodox Christians)Christians) emperor asked Christian emperor asked Christian kings for helps against the Islamic kings for helps against the Islamic ethnic ethnic TurksTurks, who were attacking , who were attacking the empire.the empire.

Went on to JerusalemWent on to Jerusalem – Captured the Christian holy land from Captured the Christian holy land from

the Muslims.the Muslims.

Battle for JerusalemBattle for Jerusalem

Frank King of JerusalemFrank King of Jerusalem

Massacre at El Axa Mosque(Dome Massacre at El Axa Mosque(Dome of the Rock)of the Rock)

Muslim defenders escaped to the temple Muslim defenders escaped to the temple mount, where they had built Al Axa. mount, where they had built Al Axa. – The mosque was built on top of the remains of The mosque was built on top of the remains of

22ndnd Jewish temple. Jewish temple.Romans tore it down in 70, Ad; Romans tore it down in 70, Ad;

– the Babylonians tore down the first one, Arch of the the Babylonians tore down the first one, Arch of the Covenant might have been taken).Covenant might have been taken).

The Muslims were offered safety if they The Muslims were offered safety if they surrendered and then were massacred by surrendered and then were massacred by the Crusaders.the Crusaders.

..

Al Aksa MosqueAl Aksa Mosque

The Rock, Mohammed took of from The Rock, Mohammed took of from in Al Aska Mosque, Jerusalemin Al Aska Mosque, Jerusalem

The Aksa sits on top of the west The Aksa sits on top of the west “wailing wall” of the 2“wailing wall” of the 2ndnd Temple Temple

Church of the Holy Sepulture Church of the Holy Sepulture

The Importance of JerusalemThe Importance of JerusalemJerusalem holds sites holy to all three Jerusalem holds sites holy to all three Abrahamic religions:Abrahamic religions:Judaism: the “wailing wall” what’s left on Judaism: the “wailing wall” what’s left on the 2the 2ndnd Temple. Temple.Christianity: the spot, Church of the Holy Christianity: the spot, Church of the Holy Sepulture, where Jesus was thought to be Sepulture, where Jesus was thought to be crucified, buried and resurrected.crucified, buried and resurrected.Islam: the spot, the Dome of the Rock, Islam: the spot, the Dome of the Rock, where Mohammed ascended to heaven on where Mohammed ascended to heaven on a winged horse.a winged horse.

SaladinSaladin

Saladin: a Kurd, raised an Islamic Saladin: a Kurd, raised an Islamic army and threw the Christians out of army and threw the Christians out of Jerusalem hundred years later in Jerusalem hundred years later in 1187.1187.

10% of Palestinians are still 10% of Palestinians are still Christians. In fact, a Palestinian Christians. In fact, a Palestinian maintains the key to the church of maintains the key to the church of the Holy Scepter the Holy Scepter

Christian Enclaves were left in Christian Enclaves were left in Lebanon and other parts of coastal Lebanon and other parts of coastal

middle east, called the Levant, middle east, called the Levant, current day Lebanon, Israel, Syria, current day Lebanon, Israel, Syria,

Jordan and IraqJordan and Iraq

Particularly the Maronite Christians.Particularly the Maronite Christians.

Also significant percentage of Also significant percentage of Christian Palestinians, about the Christian Palestinians, about the same as Americans of African decent same as Americans of African decent in U.S. (15%)in U.S. (15%)

Statue Saladin in JordanStatue Saladin in Jordan

Ottoman EmpireOttoman EmpireFrom the 16th Century to the early 20From the 16th Century to the early 20thth Century, ethnic Turks (who were Sunni Century, ethnic Turks (who were Sunni Muslims) from Anatolia, or modern day Muslims) from Anatolia, or modern day Turkey, invadedTurkey, invaded Syria, Syria, Palestine/Israel/Lebanon, Palestine/Israel/Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt/Sudan, Egypt/Sudan, Greece, Greece, Albania, Albania, Vienna( which they failed, to conquer).Vienna( which they failed, to conquer).

Suleiman the Magnificent; Peak of power Suleiman the Magnificent; Peak of power 1550: Suleiman Mosque: Istanbul, Turkey1550: Suleiman Mosque: Istanbul, Turkey

Grand Bazaar IstanbulGrand Bazaar Istanbul

Capadocia HotelCapadocia Hotel

Camel Trading quartersCamel Trading quarters

Capadocia….ehCapadocia….eh

The Malthusian World at 1800The Malthusian World at 1800Around 1800 Something Around 1800 Something

Happened: The Great DivergenceHappened: The Great Divergence

The Great Divergence refers to the The Great Divergence refers to the divergence in wealth and power divergence in wealth and power between Britain, Europe and the U.S. between Britain, Europe and the U.S. and everyone else.and everyone else.Why did that happen?Why did that happen?– Access to energy: coal?Access to energy: coal?– Seafaring?Seafaring?– Technological breakthroughs?Technological breakthroughs?– Dumb luck?Dumb luck?

Thomas Malthus: British economist Thomas Malthus: British economist who postulated population who postulated population

inevitably determined standard of inevitably determined standard of livingliving

Thomas MalthusThomas Malthus

In 1800, the whole world was In 1800, the whole world was basically on an even footing in terms basically on an even footing in terms of wealth.of wealth.– Most people had one or two suits of Most people had one or two suits of

clothesclothes– Had close the same life expectancyHad close the same life expectancy– Lived in a one room dwelling with lots of Lived in a one room dwelling with lots of

peoplepeople– Heated and cooked with fire.Heated and cooked with fire.

Agricultural revolutionAgricultural revolutionIn 1750 took about 19 Americans to In 1750 took about 19 Americans to feed 20.feed 20.

By 1820, 1 American could feed 20.By 1820, 1 American could feed 20.

Biggest Advance: ammonia nitrate Biggest Advance: ammonia nitrate (good for bomb making too)(good for bomb making too)Occam Razor: the simplest answer is Occam Razor: the simplest answer is usually right and the best.usually right and the best.

Malthusian TrapMalthusian Trap

In a Malthusian world:In a Malthusian world:– Standard of living stayed relatively constant.Standard of living stayed relatively constant.– You grew food to feed the population.You grew food to feed the population.– If you grew more food the population would If you grew more food the population would

grow, until you overpopulated. (there is no grow, until you overpopulated. (there is no worse poverty that rural poverty)worse poverty that rural poverty)

– That would drive down standard of living until That would drive down standard of living until people died. (famine, war, pestilence, disease)people died. (famine, war, pestilence, disease)

– Then your standard of living would come back Then your standard of living would come back to balance.to balance.

– No way out of the trap, population was the key No way out of the trap, population was the key determinate.determinate.

Life Expectancy at birth, about the Life Expectancy at birth, about the same as hunters/gathers 1799same as hunters/gathers 1799

And you worked harder for itAnd you worked harder for it

The average persons standard of The average persons standard of living as measured by their life living as measured by their life expectancy and calorie intake was expectancy and calorie intake was about the same as it was when we about the same as it was when we were hunter gathers.were hunter gathers.– Ironically, in developed countries, it took Ironically, in developed countries, it took

more work, as measured by hours more work, as measured by hours labored, to get the same amount of labored, to get the same amount of calories as hunter gathers.calories as hunter gathers.

Thomas MalthusThomas MalthusIf you got really good at growing food, you If you got really good at growing food, you could support more population, but the could support more population, but the Malthusian Trap would still be in play…Malthusian Trap would still be in play…– when your population got too big (even if it when your population got too big (even if it

could sustain a larger population), could sustain a larger population), – living standards drop living standards drop – more people to share resources until people more people to share resources until people

died.died.

Today there are 6 Billion people in the world, Today there are 6 Billion people in the world, while there were less than 1 Billion in 1750.while there were less than 1 Billion in 1750.

Malthusian TrapsMalthusian Traps

So modern Western medicine is So modern Western medicine is bad…. And bad…. And

The Plaque good.The Plaque good.

Modern Medicine is BadModern Medicine is BadOne of the many ironies: if you introduce One of the many ironies: if you introduce modern medicine to the Malthusian world:modern medicine to the Malthusian world:More people survive, food stays the same, More people survive, food stays the same, standard of living goes down, as standard of living goes down, as population outstrips agriculture and living population outstrips agriculture and living standard decreases. standard decreases. You lower the level of what subsistence is, You lower the level of what subsistence is, even though you save individual lives. even though you save individual lives. (those who are saved are glad though)(those who are saved are glad though)The balance point is now at a The balance point is now at a lower level,lower level, those saved would have died, leaving those saved would have died, leaving more for the rest of us.more for the rest of us.

So what happened?So what happened?

In Britain, you had a population In Britain, you had a population boom. But mainly in the upper boom. But mainly in the upper classesclasses– The lower and middle classes had a The lower and middle classes had a

lower birth rate.lower birth rate.

So, you had a bunch of extra sons of So, you had a bunch of extra sons of the wealthy.the wealthy.– These sons were educated and had These sons were educated and had

upper class values.upper class values.

But the boom happened in the But the boom happened in the Upper Classes (opposite today)Upper Classes (opposite today)

Compared to Samurai elite in Compared to Samurai elite in Japan (bars are England, Dots Japan (bars are England, Dots

Japan) Where population droppedJapan) Where population dropped

The Great DivergenceThe Great DivergenceWhat to do with the extra sons with a fixed What to do with the extra sons with a fixed amount of land?amount of land?

Some naturally dropped in the middle Some naturally dropped in the middle class and eventually working class.class and eventually working class.– Remember: they were now literate, educated Remember: they were now literate, educated

workers and middle management. So naturally workers and middle management. So naturally were their children.were their children.

Some had allowances and started Some had allowances and started inventing stuff, like better mouse traps inventing stuff, like better mouse traps and….and….

Great DivergenceGreat Divergence

James Watt (and others) invented a James Watt (and others) invented a steam engine, which could power steam engine, which could power machines that could weave wool and machines that could weave wool and cotton into clothes, so you could cotton into clothes, so you could have more than one set of clotheshave more than one set of clothes– AT a reasonable price.AT a reasonable price.

Then, with the Agricultural Then, with the Agricultural Revolution, you had a population Revolution, you had a population

boom, so many extra hands, boom, so many extra hands, combined with the extra smart combined with the extra smart people, created extra efficient people, created extra efficient

system.system.

All of a sudden you have a large educated All of a sudden you have a large educated work force, work force, Machines to use, created by those “out of Machines to use, created by those “out of land” aristocrat/scientists, andland” aristocrat/scientists, andShips to move materials in and out…Ships to move materials in and out…A government was controlled by the A government was controlled by the wealthy BUSINESSMEN, not aristocrats wealthy BUSINESSMEN, not aristocrats only. (Property rights)only. (Property rights)A plentiful source of fuel: CoalA plentiful source of fuel: CoalYears of no wars on your soil.Years of no wars on your soil.

They employed these machines to They employed these machines to make things other middle classers make things other middle classers wanted, like clothes, China, wanted, like clothes, China, carriages, furniture for their new carriages, furniture for their new houses, but mainly clothes.houses, but mainly clothes.

But if they were busy making But if they were busy making machines, instead of growing crops, machines, instead of growing crops, wouldn’t they eat more than they wouldn’t they eat more than they produced? Kind of like the medicine? produced? Kind of like the medicine?

Shouldn’t they starve to death, Shouldn’t they starve to death, reducing the population, a la reducing the population, a la Malthusian Trap?Malthusian Trap?Yes, ButYes, But

Yes they would have except.Yes they would have except.One of their ex-colonies One of their ex-colonies with few peoplewith few people and and lots of land were growing tons of grain in their lots of land were growing tons of grain in their new frontier and sent it across the pond.new frontier and sent it across the pond.So, you ended up with Britain as the only place in So, you ended up with Britain as the only place in the world with a large educated group of middle the world with a large educated group of middle classers who could afford to invent and not classers who could afford to invent and not starve, with a literate working class to run their starve, with a literate working class to run their machines.machines.– But the working class was relatively small because of But the working class was relatively small because of

that lack of reproducing, allowing them to demand that lack of reproducing, allowing them to demand higher wages than most of the world, and more than higher wages than most of the world, and more than they could make on the farm, which didn’t need them they could make on the farm, which didn’t need them anymore. So, they moved to the cities to work in anymore. So, they moved to the cities to work in factories.factories.

And, as luck would have it, it turns out And, as luck would have it, it turns out having a educated work force became a having a educated work force became a multiplier of efficiency. multiplier of efficiency. The workers turned out more product The workers turned out more product because they were able to produce more because they were able to produce more than their one input.than their one input.Other places simply employed more, Other places simply employed more, uneducated labor…the educated out uneducated labor…the educated out produced them in places, like India, where produced them in places, like India, where they tried to export the factories.they tried to export the factories.

Efficiencies took off in about 1800 Efficiencies took off in about 1800 when that educated work force when that educated work force mated with the new machinesmated with the new machines

The new efficient economy, run by The new efficient economy, run by those efficient workers, created a those efficient workers, created a wealth boom.wealth boom.

And wealth took offAnd wealth took off

Input a rocketing Population with Input a rocketing Population with multiplying efficiencies and even multiplying efficiencies and even per capita wealth took off, not to per capita wealth took off, not to

mention national wealthmention national wealth

Look how efficiencies exceed Look how efficiencies exceed population: most of that wealth in population: most of that wealth in

Europe and U.S.: the Great Europe and U.S.: the Great DivergenceDivergence

People everywhere bought up their stuff they were making, People everywhere bought up their stuff they were making, which made the British wealthier yet.which made the British wealthier yet.But of course, they needed more raw materials like cotton But of course, they needed more raw materials like cotton and wood, to make more of their products like furniture and and wood, to make more of their products like furniture and clothing.clothing.– So they set sail and took over coastal areas of all the weak So they set sail and took over coastal areas of all the weak

little countries still living in a Malthusian world, so they’d have little countries still living in a Malthusian world, so they’d have a place to extract the wood and cotton, and lots of other stuff.a place to extract the wood and cotton, and lots of other stuff.

– They had better guns and money to pay of local officials, life They had better guns and money to pay of local officials, life was good.was good.

– Plus they could sell the stuff they were making in their Plus they could sell the stuff they were making in their factories to the people who were extracting the raw materials factories to the people who were extracting the raw materials from their own countries, on the backs of the peasantry.from their own countries, on the backs of the peasantry.

Then they put their new steam engine to Then they put their new steam engine to work in boats and ships and could go work in boats and ships and could go against the ocean currents and up rivers against the ocean currents and up rivers to access more cotton, opium and stuff.to access more cotton, opium and stuff.

And could float lightly on the water.And could float lightly on the water.– So, they could conquer places that weren’t on So, they could conquer places that weren’t on

the coast. Going up those shallow rivers with the coast. Going up those shallow rivers with their gunboats.their gunboats.

– Unless they got malaria and died, but hey, Unless they got malaria and died, but hey, that’s what workers are for.that’s what workers are for.

So you ask…So you ask…

Why didn’t those other countries just Why didn’t those other countries just import those cool machines and import those cool machines and compete with the Brits?compete with the Brits?

They tried and some succeeded, They tried and some succeeded, about 100 years later, like the U.S., about 100 years later, like the U.S., Germany and France. Germany and France. – Those countries had all begun or had Those countries had all begun or had

developed a school system and had developed a school system and had educated workers.educated workers.

To ReviewTo ReviewIn Europe and U.S. they multiplied their In Europe and U.S. they multiplied their efficiencies of production through the use efficiencies of production through the use of highly paid, educated workers.of highly paid, educated workers.

In countries that remain underdeveloped, In countries that remain underdeveloped, they simply hired more unskilled workers, they simply hired more unskilled workers, that cost nothing.that cost nothing.

But even with more workers, highly skilled But even with more workers, highly skilled workers out produced them, particularly as workers out produced them, particularly as machinery got more complex.machinery got more complex.

Africa, Asia, and South AmericaAfrica, Asia, and South America

All had extreme oligarchies like most All had extreme oligarchies like most of Europe (not Britain) hadof Europe (not Britain) had– A small part of the population, A small part of the population,

oligarchs/aristocrats, owned all the landoligarchs/aristocrats, owned all the land– A huge peasant class who worked the A huge peasant class who worked the

land and lived a non-educated, land and lived a non-educated, Malthusian lifestyle.Malthusian lifestyle.

OrOr

Lived in small villages, eating what Lived in small villages, eating what they grew, and trading any surplus…they grew, and trading any surplus…a classic Malthusian Trap kind of life. a classic Malthusian Trap kind of life. Most of Sub Saharan Africa was like Most of Sub Saharan Africa was like that.that.

When colonist arrived it was to their When colonist arrived it was to their benefit to keep oligarch’s in place benefit to keep oligarch’s in place and to use unskilled/uneducated and to use unskilled/uneducated labor to work raw materialslabor to work raw materials– Rubber in CongoRubber in Congo– Lumber in IndonesiaLumber in Indonesia– Coffee/Fruit South AmericaCoffee/Fruit South America– Etc.Etc.

The British CenturyThe British CenturyBritain took advantage of its big head Britain took advantage of its big head start in a mechanized society with an start in a mechanized society with an educated working class.educated working class.The conquered or controlled:The conquered or controlled:– IndiaIndia– South AfricaSouth Africa– MalaysiaMalaysia– ChinaChina– Egypt, Iran, YemenEgypt, Iran, Yemen

A part of the empire at one timeA part of the empire at one time

So of courseSo of courseWherever they went, they discouraged Wherever they went, they discouraged those places from competing.those places from competing.– If you paid the oligarchs enough, they didn’t If you paid the oligarchs enough, they didn’t

mind not workingmind not working

But whenever other countries got the But whenever other countries got the machines, even if owned by British, they machines, even if owned by British, they under produced, relative to Britain and under produced, relative to Britain and other European countries, and U.S. other European countries, and U.S.

So how do you get the developing So how do you get the developing world developedworld developed

Giving them money/aid won’t help in Giving them money/aid won’t help in the long run, although it will alleviate the long run, although it will alleviate acute problems.acute problems.Giving them machines won’t help, as Giving them machines won’t help, as they won’t be run efficiently enough they won’t be run efficiently enough to compete.to compete.Changing their political system Changing their political system probably won’t help, if the societal probably won’t help, if the societal structure stays the same.structure stays the same.

Education: slow and steady wins Education: slow and steady wins the day.the day.

Educating the majority of the population, Educating the majority of the population, particularly WOMEN, probably would help. particularly WOMEN, probably would help. – People can participate in government and run People can participate in government and run

modern economies efficiently enough to modern economies efficiently enough to compete.compete.

– Takes a long timeTakes a long time– There are signs the undeveloped are slowly There are signs the undeveloped are slowly

developing.developing.– Up and Comers: China, India and BrazilUp and Comers: China, India and Brazil– Already made its: South Korea, Taiwan, Already made its: South Korea, Taiwan,

Singapore.Singapore.

Ha, Ha, the jokes on youHa, Ha, the jokes on youTurns out there is no correlation Turns out there is no correlation between wealth and happiness, once between wealth and happiness, once you get to the subsistence level.you get to the subsistence level.Every time they’ve measured Every time they’ve measured happiness, it has to do with your happiness, it has to do with your wealth relative to those around you wealth relative to those around you or your brain chemistry.or your brain chemistry.If you took my AP Psych class you If you took my AP Psych class you know this.know this.

All for naughtAll for naught

Back to Ottoman RuleBack to Ottoman RuleBecause the Ottoman’s tended to prefer Because the Ottoman’s tended to prefer certain minorities to others to rule their certain minorities to others to rule their localities, they established some intense localities, they established some intense resentments before they left.resentments before they left.– Bosnians in the BalkansBosnians in the Balkans– Sunnis in Shiites majority Mesopotamia (Iraq)Sunnis in Shiites majority Mesopotamia (Iraq)– Really left few educated elite Palestinians, Really left few educated elite Palestinians,

mostly peasant farmers as rulers were brought mostly peasant farmers as rulers were brought in from throughout the kingdomin from throughout the kingdom

Ottoman DeclineOttoman DeclineThe “sick man of Europe.” Through The “sick man of Europe.” Through the 19the 19thth Century, Ottoman glory Century, Ottoman glory began to diminish.began to diminish.A feudal system where local A feudal system where local governors were brought in from the governors were brought in from the empire. No inherited system of Lords empire. No inherited system of Lords as in Europe, so no democratic roots.as in Europe, so no democratic roots.Continued with a taxed land based Continued with a taxed land based peasant farmer systempeasant farmer system

Ottoman DeclineOttoman DeclineNo public school system as in U.S. and Europe. Education No public school system as in U.S. and Europe. Education dependent on Koranic schools, which mainly “taught” dependent on Koranic schools, which mainly “taught” memorization of the Koran, in Arabic.memorization of the Koran, in Arabic.No, or little, industrialization because of lack of No, or little, industrialization because of lack of educated/entrepreneurial middle class. Wealth flowed educated/entrepreneurial middle class. Wealth flowed upward to Ottoman rulers.upward to Ottoman rulers.No industrial development, particularly in steam No industrial development, particularly in steam technology, metal ships or modern weapons.technology, metal ships or modern weapons.No loyal Nationalistic political world view encouraged as the No loyal Nationalistic political world view encouraged as the occupied lands were part of an “empire” not a nation-state.occupied lands were part of an “empire” not a nation-state.Regional populations remained loyal to ethnicity more than Regional populations remained loyal to ethnicity more than a national identity: think Kurd, Sunni, Shia in Iraqa national identity: think Kurd, Sunni, Shia in Iraq

IranIranPersia remained independent since Persia remained independent since Alexander the Great era.Alexander the Great era.

Occasionally powers challenged Persian Occasionally powers challenged Persian rule and occasionally Iran ventured into rule and occasionally Iran ventured into the Arab middle east, but never for long.the Arab middle east, but never for long.

Iran was the home of Shia Islam, the Iran was the home of Shia Islam, the smaller but important Islamic group, smaller but important Islamic group, located primarily in Iran, Lebanon and located primarily in Iran, Lebanon and parts of modern-day Iraq.parts of modern-day Iraq.

1919thth century Iran pretty much he century Iran pretty much he same as todaysame as today

Wahhabists SunnisWahhabists SunnisA group of fundamentalist Sunnis who conquered A group of fundamentalist Sunnis who conquered parts of the Arabian peninsula for a time around parts of the Arabian peninsula for a time around 1803, were eventually repulsed by Ottomans.1803, were eventually repulsed by Ottomans.Their decedents are the Al Saud family, who Their decedents are the Al Saud family, who currently rule Saudi Arabia, that’s were the name currently rule Saudi Arabia, that’s were the name comes from. The Sauds revolted against the comes from. The Sauds revolted against the Ottomans, with the help of the British, durning Ottomans, with the help of the British, durning WWI: Britain promised Arab autonomy.WWI: Britain promised Arab autonomy.It is this philosophy that Osama Bin Laudin It is this philosophy that Osama Bin Laudin subscribes to. Believe in fundamentalist Sharia subscribes to. Believe in fundamentalist Sharia law as the only legitimate law, all secular law as the only legitimate law, all secular government is illegitimate.government is illegitimate.

WhabbistsWhabbistsBelieve that all non believers must be Believe that all non believers must be expelled from holy lands (Saudi Arabia, expelled from holy lands (Saudi Arabia, Jerusalem), as the disciples of the Jerusalem), as the disciples of the Mohammed expelled the non believers. It Mohammed expelled the non believers. It is their duty to conquer non believers, is their duty to conquer non believers, spread the word, allow the non believers spread the word, allow the non believers to convert and kill the rest.to convert and kill the rest.The Koran does imply that “people of the The Koran does imply that “people of the book” should be treated well, and most book” should be treated well, and most Muslim areas were more tolerant than Muslim areas were more tolerant than many Christian areas, but the Whabbists many Christian areas, but the Whabbists take a less tolerant view.take a less tolerant view.

Mid 18Mid 18thth Century CenturyIt was Britain’s interest to protect it’s It was Britain’s interest to protect it’s shipping lanes from the East to British shipping lanes from the East to British factories.factories.Before the Suez Canal the main routes Before the Suez Canal the main routes came through the Shat Al Arab waterways came through the Shat Al Arab waterways and Persian gulf.and Persian gulf.After the completion of the Suez by the After the completion of the Suez by the French, the Arabian Sea and canal were French, the Arabian Sea and canal were major access points.major access points.All required British military presence in the All required British military presence in the Ottoman dominated Middle East.Ottoman dominated Middle East.

European dominationEuropean domination

The European/Christian powers, The European/Christian powers, particularly Britain, France and particularly Britain, France and Russia, slowly began to pick apart Russia, slowly began to pick apart the empire.the empire.

Since Byzantium times, many Since Byzantium times, many Christian enclaves existed in Eastern Christian enclaves existed in Eastern Europe and the Middle East. Notably: Europe and the Middle East. Notably: Serbia, Greece, Armenia and parts of Serbia, Greece, Armenia and parts of Lebanon.Lebanon.

European dominationEuropean dominationUnder guise of protectors of Christians the Under guise of protectors of Christians the Europeans extracted special rights in the Europeans extracted special rights in the Ottoman empire (and China, India, S.E. Ottoman empire (and China, India, S.E. Asia) (the Capitulations):Asia) (the Capitulations):– France: Lebanon, Tunisia, AlgeriaFrance: Lebanon, Tunisia, Algeria– Britain: Egypt, YemenBritain: Egypt, Yemen– Russia: Serbia, Bulgaria, much of the Balkans, Russia: Serbia, Bulgaria, much of the Balkans,

finishing Ottoman presence in Europefinishing Ottoman presence in Europe– Greece: IndependenceGreece: Independence– Armenia: wanted independence but was put Armenia: wanted independence but was put

down.down.

European DominationEuropean DominationThe more important interests of Europeans was The more important interests of Europeans was economic control of trade routes, particularly economic control of trade routes, particularly water access to India and the Far East, to avoid water access to India and the Far East, to avoid costly travel around Cape of Good Hope in South costly travel around Cape of Good Hope in South Africa (British)Africa (British)The Suez Canal, connecting the Red Sea with the The Suez Canal, connecting the Red Sea with the Mediterranean.Mediterranean.The Persia Gulf, Basra and the Shat al Arab The Persia Gulf, Basra and the Shat al Arab waterway to land routes to Mediterranean, waterway to land routes to Mediterranean, Mesopotamia (Iraq).Mesopotamia (Iraq).The Black Sea through the Bosporus to The Black Sea through the Bosporus to Mediterranean (Russia).Mediterranean (Russia).All controlled by the Ottomans, who charged All controlled by the Ottomans, who charged large fees to travel through.large fees to travel through.

On Eve of WWIOn Eve of WWIMiddle East mostly controlled by Europeans who Middle East mostly controlled by Europeans who had rested control of Ottomans Empire, local had rested control of Ottomans Empire, local powers who paid tribute to Ottomans, and the powers who paid tribute to Ottomans, and the Ottomans in the Saudi peninsula.Ottomans in the Saudi peninsula.Ottoman was a weak, non-industrial, empire of Ottoman was a weak, non-industrial, empire of disparate groups of ethnic and religious groups, disparate groups of ethnic and religious groups, with varying levels of loyalty to Ottomans.with varying levels of loyalty to Ottomans.No Arab country had been an autonomous Nation No Arab country had been an autonomous Nation State, in the European sense. All had been under State, in the European sense. All had been under colonial rule for at least 1000 years.colonial rule for at least 1000 years.

After the CapitualtionsAfter the Capitualtions

The Arab UprisingThe Arab UprisingThe British wanted to keep the The British wanted to keep the German/Austrian Hungarian/Ottoman side German/Austrian Hungarian/Ottoman side busy in the M.E., so formented an uprising busy in the M.E., so formented an uprising of Bedouins in SA,of Bedouins in SA,T.E. Lawrence “of Arabia” rode with the T.E. Lawrence “of Arabia” rode with the Arabs. The British promised them a Arabs. The British promised them a independent Arab state if they helped. The independent Arab state if they helped. The Damascus Protocol.Damascus Protocol.The had already promised a Jewish state in The had already promised a Jewish state in Palestine in the Balfour Declaration, before Palestine in the Balfour Declaration, before the war.the war.

T.E. LawrenceT.E. Lawrence

http://www.jordanjubilee.com/history/http://www.jordanjubilee.com/history/lawrence.htmlawrence.htm these have actual pictures taken by these have actual pictures taken by Lawrence on assault at Acaba.Lawrence on assault at Acaba.

Lawrence of ArabiaLawrence of Arabia

League of NationsLeague of Nations

After WWI, the league of nations After WWI, the league of nations gave mandates, or control, ove the gave mandates, or control, ove the middle east to the winning powersmiddle east to the winning powers

Between the WarsBetween the WarsBritish Mandate in Palestine, Iraq and Jordan..British Mandate in Palestine, Iraq and Jordan..French in Syria and LebanonFrench in Syria and LebanonBritain tried to play both Arabs and IsraelisBritain tried to play both Arabs and Israelis– Promises during WWI to independent Arab states in Promises during WWI to independent Arab states in

exchange for uprising. 1915/16exchange for uprising. 1915/16– Balfour Declaration: promised a Jewish homeland, with Balfour Declaration: promised a Jewish homeland, with

protections for others: 1917protections for others: 1917– White Paper of 1939: again promised Arabs if they White Paper of 1939: again promised Arabs if they

helped them against Hitlerhelped them against Hitler– Jews were not allowed into Palestine (or America) to Jews were not allowed into Palestine (or America) to

escape Nazi persecution.escape Nazi persecution.

Damascus Protocol: McMahon Damascus Protocol: McMahon Letter: 1915Letter: 1915

The districts of Mersin and Alexandretta, and portions of The districts of Mersin and Alexandretta, and portions of Syria lying to the west of the districts of Damascus, Homs, Syria lying to the west of the districts of Damascus, Homs, Hama and Aleppo, cannot be said to be purely Arab, and Hama and Aleppo, cannot be said to be purely Arab, and must on that account be excepted from the proposed must on that account be excepted from the proposed delimitation.delimitation. Subject to that modification, and without Subject to that modification, and without prejudice to the treaties concluded between us and certain prejudice to the treaties concluded between us and certain Arab Chiefs, we accept that delimitation.Arab Chiefs, we accept that delimitation. As for the regions As for the regions lying within the proposed frontiers, in which Great Britain is lying within the proposed frontiers, in which Great Britain is free to act without detriment to interests of her ally France, free to act without detriment to interests of her ally France, I am authorized to give you the following pledges on behalf I am authorized to give you the following pledges on behalf of the Government of Great Britain, and to reply as follows of the Government of Great Britain, and to reply as follows to your note:to your note: That subject to the modifications stated That subject to the modifications stated above, Great Britain is prepared to recognize and uphold above, Great Britain is prepared to recognize and uphold the independence of the Arabs in all the regions lying within the independence of the Arabs in all the regions lying within the frontiers proposed by the Sharif of Mecca.the frontiers proposed by the Sharif of Mecca.[6][6]

Balfour Declaration: 1917Balfour Declaration: 1917Dear Lord Rothschild,Dear Lord Rothschild,I have much pleasure in conveying to you, on behalf of His I have much pleasure in conveying to you, on behalf of His Majesty's Government, the following declaration of Majesty's Government, the following declaration of sympathy with Jewish Zionist aspirations which has been sympathy with Jewish Zionist aspirations which has been submitted to, and approved by, the Cabinet:submitted to, and approved by, the Cabinet:"His Majesty's Government view with favour the "His Majesty's Government view with favour the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people, and will use their best endeavours to facilitate the people, and will use their best endeavours to facilitate the achievement of this object, it being clearly understood that achievement of this object, it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed by Jews Palestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed by Jews in any other country".in any other country".I should be grateful if you would bring this declaration to I should be grateful if you would bring this declaration to the knowledge of the Zionist Federation.the knowledge of the Zionist Federation.

Yours sincerely Yours sincerely

1918 to Arab King: seems to 1918 to Arab King: seems to promise two state solutionpromise two state solution

The Entente Powers are determined that the Arab race shall The Entente Powers are determined that the Arab race shall be given full opportunity of once again forming a nation in be given full opportunity of once again forming a nation in the world. This can only be achieved by the Arabs the world. This can only be achieved by the Arabs themselves uniting, and Great Britain and her Allies will themselves uniting, and Great Britain and her Allies will pursue a policy with this ultimate unity in view.pursue a policy with this ultimate unity in view.[9][9]and with respect to Palestine and in the light of the Balfour and with respect to Palestine and in the light of the Balfour Declaration thatDeclaration thatSince the Jewish opinion of the world is in favour of a return Since the Jewish opinion of the world is in favour of a return of Jews to Palestine and in as much as this opinion must of Jews to Palestine and in as much as this opinion must remain a constant factor, and further as His Majesty's remain a constant factor, and further as His Majesty's Government view with favour the realisation of this Government view with favour the realisation of this aspiration, His Majesty's Government are determined that aspiration, His Majesty's Government are determined that insofar as is compatible with the freedom of the existing insofar as is compatible with the freedom of the existing population both economic and political, no obstacle should population both economic and political, no obstacle should be put in the way of the realisation of this ideal.be put in the way of the realisation of this ideal.[9][9]

White Paper: 1939White Paper: 1939"His Majesty's Government believe that the framers of the "His Majesty's Government believe that the framers of the Mandate in which the Balfour Declaration was embodied could not Mandate in which the Balfour Declaration was embodied could not have intended that Palestine should be converted into a Jewish have intended that Palestine should be converted into a Jewish State against the will of the Arab population of the country. [...] State against the will of the Arab population of the country. [...] His Majesty's Government therefore now declare unequivocally His Majesty's Government therefore now declare unequivocally that it is not part of their policy that Palestine should become a that it is not part of their policy that Palestine should become a Jewish State. They would indeed regard it as contrary to their Jewish State. They would indeed regard it as contrary to their obligations to the Arabs under the Mandate, as well as to the obligations to the Arabs under the Mandate, as well as to the assurances which have been given to the Arab people in the past, assurances which have been given to the Arab people in the past, that the Arab population of Palestine should be made the subjects that the Arab population of Palestine should be made the subjects of a Jewish State against their will."of a Jewish State against their will."'The objective of His Majesty's Government is the establishment 'The objective of His Majesty's Government is the establishment within 10 years of an independent Palestine State in such treaty within 10 years of an independent Palestine State in such treaty relations with the United Kingdom as will provide satisfactorily for relations with the United Kingdom as will provide satisfactorily for the commercial and strategic requirements of both countries in the commercial and strategic requirements of both countries in the future. [..] The independent State should be one in which the future. [..] The independent State should be one in which Arabs and Jews share government in such a way as to ensure that Arabs and Jews share government in such a way as to ensure that the essential interests of each community are safeguarded.'the essential interests of each community are safeguarded.'

This shift in viewThis shift in view

Kept Jews fleeing the Nazis from Kept Jews fleeing the Nazis from being allowed into the Palestinian being allowed into the Palestinian Mandate.Mandate.

1948 Israel Created1948 Israel Created1939 British White paper suggested a unified 1939 British White paper suggested a unified Palestine, with representation to be by Palestine, with representation to be by population, would have created Arab state, with population, would have created Arab state, with protections for Jews and Christians.protections for Jews and Christians.Balfour Declaration: called for Jewish State with Balfour Declaration: called for Jewish State with protection for “others.”protection for “others.”1948: Newly formed U.N. created state of Israel 1948: Newly formed U.N. created state of Israel as a Jewish state, but did not include the West as a Jewish state, but did not include the West Bank of Jordan river. Jerusalem was divided, but Bank of Jordan river. Jerusalem was divided, but the Jews had to leave the old city, with the the Jews had to leave the old city, with the wailing wall, the retaining wall that survived the wailing wall, the retaining wall that survived the destruction of the Temple.destruction of the Temple.

Israel before and after partition and Israel before and after partition and ensuing conflictensuing conflict

Palestinian Fled to Refugee camps Palestinian Fled to Refugee camps that still remainthat still remain

Right of ReturnRight of ReturnIn 1948 the UN General Assembly passed In 1948 the UN General Assembly passed Resolution 194 on the Question of Resolution 194 on the Question of Palestine, which "resolves that refugees Palestine, which "resolves that refugees wishing to return to their homes and live wishing to return to their homes and live at peace with their neighbors should be at peace with their neighbors should be permitted to do so at the earliest permitted to do so at the earliest practicable date, and that compensation practicable date, and that compensation should be paid for the property of those should be paid for the property of those choosing not to return..."choosing not to return..."

Demographics Demographics If Israel would choose to do so, they would If Israel would choose to do so, they would cease being a Jewish state.cease being a Jewish state.There are currently about 6 million Jews in There are currently about 6 million Jews in Israel and 8 to 9 Million Palestinians who Israel and 8 to 9 Million Palestinians who might make claims, about 2 million Arab might make claims, about 2 million Arab Muslims who live in Israel currently.Muslims who live in Israel currently.This demographic problem is the same This demographic problem is the same when Israel considers incorporating the when Israel considers incorporating the “occupied territories” of the West Bank, “occupied territories” of the West Bank, Jews would then be a minority.Jews would then be a minority.

View of Tel Aviv from the Green View of Tel Aviv from the Green Line (the original boundary of Line (the original boundary of

Jordan and Israel)Jordan and Israel)

West Bank PopulationWest Bank Population200,000 Jews200,000 Jews2.5 Million Arabs. (GAZA another 1.5 2.5 Million Arabs. (GAZA another 1.5 million)million)Major issue are the settlements, extending Major issue are the settlements, extending Israel Permanently. Israel would then be Israel Permanently. Israel would then be permanent occupiers.permanent occupiers.Many Israeli’s would give it back to Jordan Many Israeli’s would give it back to Jordan or a Palestinian state, but conservative or a Palestinian state, but conservative Jews believe that this land was promised Jews believe that this land was promised by God.by God.

Jewish Settlement on West BankJewish Settlement on West Bank

Russian ImmigrationRussian ImmigrationMost of the Jews in Israel came from Eastern and Most of the Jews in Israel came from Eastern and Western Europe and Arab countries, until the Fall Western Europe and Arab countries, until the Fall of the Soviet Union, in the late 80s.of the Soviet Union, in the late 80s.Jewish immigrants from Russia came into Israel Jewish immigrants from Russia came into Israel (and the West Bank) in the early 90s, many who (and the West Bank) in the early 90s, many who became settlers in the West Bank, where land became settlers in the West Bank, where land was cheap, with encouragement of government. (was cheap, with encouragement of government. ( For various reason, they were less likely to be For various reason, they were less likely to be attracted to the socialist/labor party and could attracted to the socialist/labor party and could not understand why anyone would give up land. not understand why anyone would give up land.

Identity PoliticsIdentity PoliticsEven excluding Israel the M.E. is composed of groups who Even excluding Israel the M.E. is composed of groups who see their identity based on family, tribe, religion more than see their identity based on family, tribe, religion more than Nationalism: Shiite, Sunni, Maronite, Druze, Coptic Nationalism: Shiite, Sunni, Maronite, Druze, Coptic Christian, Wahabi, Hashemite, Palestinian, Aliwaites, upper Christian, Wahabi, Hashemite, Palestinian, Aliwaites, upper class…etc.class…etc.70% of population is under 30, exposed to Western culture, 70% of population is under 30, exposed to Western culture, sick of autocracy and the old ways. Exposed to Internet, sick of autocracy and the old ways. Exposed to Internet, cable, CNN, Al Jazerra, etccable, CNN, Al Jazerra, etcLebanon, levant coastal area cut from Syria By French Lebanon, levant coastal area cut from Syria By French Mandate to protect Maronite, who were small majority of Mandate to protect Maronite, who were small majority of coastal area. Now the politics are divided between Druze coastal area. Now the politics are divided between Druze (Shiite offshoot) Maronite Christians and Sunni. Large Shia (Shiite offshoot) Maronite Christians and Sunni. Large Shia group in Bekka valley of South lebanon. This led to Civil War group in Bekka valley of South lebanon. This led to Civil War in 80s, bombing of the Marine Barracks, invasion of Israel, in 80s, bombing of the Marine Barracks, invasion of Israel, massacre of Palestinians in camps, kidnapping of massacre of Palestinians in camps, kidnapping of Americans, occupation of Lebanon and many political Americans, occupation of Lebanon and many political assassination and the total destruction of Beirut.assassination and the total destruction of Beirut.