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From Beirut to Jerusalem
Book

From Beirut to Jerusalem

Thomas L. Friedman
FSG, 1995
First Edition: 1989

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Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Innovative

Recommendation

If journalism is the first rough draft of history, Friedman’s version may require only a light edit from future generations. Concisely cutting through the relentless pattern of attack and counter-attack that has characterized the Middle East for more than 50 years, Friedman finds a balance between seemingly bloodthirsty enemies. He delves into the cultural development of the peoples of the region from tribal origins, analyzing how their early struggles for survival color current events. getAbstract.com recommends this book as essential reading for any thoughtful person who wants to better understand the historical obstacles to peace in the Middle East.

Take-Aways

  • Tribal politics and colonialism helped fashion the current Middle East conflict.
  • In Bedouin culture, the lack of water and grass necessitated predatory behavior.
  • Tribal custom calls for all members to join together to fight any stranger.

About the Author

Thomas L. Friedman served as Beirut correspondent for United Press International from 1979 to 1981, when he became bureau chief for The New York Times. He has won two Pulitzer Prizes and a National Book Award. Also the author of the highly regarded volume, The Lexus and The Olive Tree, Friedman is currently foreign affairs columnist on the New York Times’ Op Ed page. He lives in the Washington, D.C., area with his wife and two daughters, Orly and Natalie.

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