An indispensable, basic introduction ... [the authors] go back in history to provide the essential background, carrying the account of the violent Arab-Jewish conflict to the present time. There is no better single volume -- [this is] objective in every way, as well as informative. *BR*- Gabriel Kolko, Distinguished Research Professor Emeritus at York University in Toronto and author of Another Century of War?*BR**BR* This work, written with a relaxed informality, is especially good at highlighting key issues. Sensitive to the perceptions and feelings of both Israelis and Palestinians, the book becomes increasingly detailed as its narrative reaches the contemporary conflict. It will be especially helpful to students and to adult readers with no prior knowledge of the Middle East in general or of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in particular. *BR*- Arthur Goldschmidt Jr. Professor Emeritus of Middle East History at Penn State University and author of A Concise History of the Middle East *BR**BR*The Palestine-Israel conflict is the most notorious and ingrained conflict of the twentieth century. Yet the way it is reported in the media is often confusing: we are frequently given little background information, so for the casual observer it is hard to understand the reasons behind the violence. Devoid of context, it is easy to think that this is an ancient conflict with its roots in ancient history. *BR**BR*This is the first book to provide a clear, accessible introduction that covers the full 2000-year history of the region, from biblical times until today. Perfect for the general reader, as well as students, it offers a comprehensive yet lucid rendering of the conflict, setting it in its proper context. It shows how today's violence is very much a product of recent history, with its roots in the 20th century.*BR**BR*The reader is guided through Ancient Israel, Muhammad and Islam, and on through two world wars, before moving on to a detailed account of the current situation. Each chapter contains notes for further reading. *BR**BR*This balanced and accessible account makes a valuable resource for anyone who wants a clear guide to today's conflict and its place in the history of Middle Eastern affairs.