Jonathan Wyrtzen’s “Worldmaking in the Long Great War” reevaluates the Middle East’s critical role during World War I, highlighting significant local struggles against colonialism between 1911 and 1934. The book challenges traditional narratives and showcases the impact of these events on contemporary conflicts. Wyrtzen emphasizes the importance of indigenous victories and movements, making the book an essential read for scholars of colonial studies and Middle Eastern history.
The Middle East has long been obscured in World War I histories, despite its significant impact on contemporary issues. New historical works are emerging that highlight its vital role during the war, with Jonathan Wyrtzen’s “Worldmaking in the Long Great War” serving as a notable example. Wyrtzen explores the multifaceted futures that emerged between 1911 and 1934, challenging the conventional portrayal of the region as merely a victim of European colonial designs.
Wyrtzen’s analysis encompasses various conflicts, including the Rif Wars, Kurdish revolts, and the Syrian resistance, highlighting their implications for modern geopolitical tensions. Events such as Da’esh’s destruction of the Syrian-Iraqi border echo the legacies of the Sykes-Picot Agreement. Moreover, the memory of the Rif Republic demonstrates that even consolidated states like Morocco harbor anti-colonial sentiments.
The book contends that earlier indigenous victories, notably the Senussi triumph at Gasr Bu Hadi in 1915, have been overlooked in narratives that inaccurately present Dien Bien Phu as the first defeat of entrenched Western forces. Wyrtzen also notes religious movements, such as the Sheikh Said Rebellion and the Senussi movement, as pivotal in these anti-colonial struggles.
Wyrtzen’s comprehensive review of French colonialism, particularly in Syria, offers rich details often missed in English-language literature. Although he revisits familiar territory regarding Ibn Saud’s control over Saudi Arabia, his approach provides fresh insights. The book could benefit from a broader inclusion of other regions, such as Somalia and Afghanistan, which also experienced significant anti-colonial struggles following World War I.
In placing the Middle East at the forefront of World War I history, Wyrtzen joins a scholarly tradition, including Sean McMeekin’s work, which highlights the region’s centrality in the war’s narrative. The enduring allure of Lawrence of Arabia reinforces outdated perceptions of the Middle East as a mere backdrop, obscuring the tumultuous events of the time.
Wyrtzen’s exploration of neglected documents unveils pivotal moments that could have altered history’s course. His assertion that local actors were instrumental in defining the region’s borders challenges entrenched historical assumptions. “Worldmaking in the Long Great War” is essential for readers interested in colonial studies, Middle Eastern history, or the complexities of historical outcomes.
The book “Worldmaking in the Long Great War” by Jonathan Wyrtzen delves into the Middle East’s crucial role during World War I, a region often misrepresented in traditional histories. It spans several decades from 1911 to 1934 and addresses events that have shaped current geopolitical landscapes. By examining local and colonial struggles, Wyrtzen challenges the oversimplified narratives surrounding the Great War and highlights the importance of indigenous resistance against colonial powers.
Jonathan Wyrtzen’s “Worldmaking in the Long Great War” reshapes the understanding of the Middle East’s role in World War I, highlighting local struggles that defy conventional narratives. The book presents a compelling argument for reevaluating the historical significance of indigenous victories and movements during this transformative era. Ultimately, it serves as a crucial resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of the complexities of modern Middle Eastern history.
Original Source: manaramagazine.org
