Backdrop to Tragedy: The Struggle for Palestine

By: William Roe Polk and David M. Stamler and Edmund

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Synopsis: Backdrop To Tragedy: The Struggle For Palestine by William Roe Polk is a comprehensive historical account of the conflict between Jews and Arabs over Palestine, from the early 20th century to the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. The book delves into the complex political, social, and religious factors that shaped the conflict, including the rise of Zionism, Arab nationalism, British colonialism, and the Holocaust. Polk examines the competing claims and aspirations of both Jews and Arabs, and the various attempts at compromise and negotiation that ultimately failed. He also explores the role of external powers, such as the United States and the Soviet Union, in shaping the conflict. The book provides a detailed analysis of key events and figures, including the Balfour Declaration, the Arab Revolt, the Peel Commission, and the United Nations Partition Plan. Polk also offers insights into the personalities and motivations of key players, such as David Ben-Gurion, Haj Amin al-Husseini, and Winston Churchill. Overall, Backdrop To Tragedy is a well-researched and engaging account of one of the most enduring and contentious conflicts of the 20th century. It provides a nuanced understanding of the historical roots of the conflict, and sheds light on the ongoing struggle for peace in the region.