Lords of the Desert

This book sums up so much of what went on in the Middle East from the Second World War onwards. As such, James Barr lifts the curtain on British plotting and intrigue in a most readable and thrilling way. It details how America got involved in the middle decades of the twentieth century and much of the rivalry that existed during this period between the secret services. Essential reading to understand some of the present-day political ramifications of the region.

This is a meticulously researched book on British and American political and diplomatic activity in the Middle East in the period following the end of the Second World War. It helps explain the situation of the present day – the relations between one country and another, the regimes in power, and ongoing Western interventions in the region. It also makes clear how, at every turn, the actions of these two nations were motivated only by self-interest, mainly by the maintenance of economic advantages, particularly relating to oil, that had been gained when they had exploited the region in earlier times.… show more.