Product Description

The Arab Revolt of 1916-18 was one of the most dramatic events of World War I. It resulted in the birth of the modern Middle East and also created one of the most enduring myths of the war: the story of Lawrence of Arabia. This book examines the revolt, describing and analyzing the background and events of the uprising. Breaking the process into several broad phases, the author examines the initial capture of coastal towns like Jeddah, followed by the raids on the Hijaz Railway, the seizure of Aqaba and the northward push of the Arab Army at Gaza, Jerusalem, Megiddo and Damascas. Finally, this book describes how a local Arab rebellion grew to form a major part of Allied operations in the Middle East, as Arab tribesman who were merely troublesome raiders developed into a force which could oppose brigade-sized Turkish columns by 1918.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #95369 in Books
• Published on: 2008-11-10
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 96 pages

Customer Reviews

A balanced review of the Revolt
This is an excellent addtion to the literature on the Arab Revolt and thankfully does not concentrate on the 'Lawrence of Arabia' legend, that dominates most other histories of the subject.
This book reflects the growing interest in the Ottoman army's tactics and dispositions, as well as the growing evidence and realisation that the Turks proved just as tough and resourceful opponents on this front as on the others such as Gallipoli and Mesopotamia. This provides a useful antidote to the usual narratives that normally relegate them to nothing more than comedy stooges for Lawrence's activities. One day we may get an english language translation of the Turkish official history for this campaign which would unlock even more detail.
The inclusion of preliminary battlefield archaeology work currently being done in southern Jordan is particularly welcome and illustrates just how important these studies are.