The Middle East Economy: Decline and Recovery

By Charles P. Issawi

Book Overview

Once, large caravans traversed huge distances to reach Middle Eastern cities whose wealth from long-distance trade, superior architecture, craftsmanship, and scientific knowledge filled Christian crusaders with awe. Europe knew nothing comparable until the late Middle Ages, when the systematic use of waterways made transportation more efficient. From the fourteenth century on, Europe surpassed the Middle East in most of the areas in which that region had formerly excelled. Charles Issawi focuses on the main reasons for the economic decline of the Middle East. He discusses climate, geography, and religion, with particular emphasis on the military elite, whose contempt for artisans and merchants thwarted positive economic initiatives. The role played by minorities and foreigners throughout the region's history is also examined.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1558761020
• ISBN13: 9781558761025
• Release Date: September 2018
• Publisher: Markus Wiener Publishers
• Length: 248 Pages
• Weight: 0.65 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Reviews for Middle East Economy

"Gracefully written, filled with historical insight, and accompanied by fine photographs, these chapters are a pleasure to read. The most contemporary deal with the adaptation of Islam to economic realities, and a revealing comparison of the Balkans and the Middle East. Of particular interest is the author's explanation for the change in standing among Egypt, Iran, and Turkey over the past two centuries." -Foreign Affairs "Issawi stands out . . . as a master at knowing what data are available, how much trust to put in them, and how to use them to illustrate a point without losing the interest of the nonspecialist. His writing is readily accessible to the general reader." -Choice