The History of Conflict in the Middle East
The history of the Middle East can be a fascinating and relevant topic for students.
By Daniella Garran
Providing students with a history of the conflicts in the Middle East is critical to their understanding of current events and international relations. While there are many ways to delve into this topic, here are a few ideas. Students could learn about the history of Israel, and the claims made on the area by Jews, Christians and Muslims in the region. They can also talk about the role played by geography and access to natural resources, such as oil. They can learn about the effects of the various wars and conflicts in the Middle East. In addition, students can discuss the United States diplomatic relations with various countries, such as Egypt, Israel, and Iraq.
Since many students are unfamiliar with the geography of the Middle East, introduce this unit or lesson with a mapping exercise. Have students complete political, geographic and topographical maps of the region. It is also important for them to have an understanding of the chronology and timeline of events in Middle East history. Create a large timeline of major events in the Middle East. Consider color-coding the timeline either by country or by religion so that students can see the intricate international relations of the region.
You can host a mini model United Nations in your classroom. Assign small groups of students different nations which they will represent in a debate. Have the groups research and prepare position papers on several different issues (e.g.: how should the West Bank and the Gaza Strip be distributed among Jews and Palestinians?). Stage a formal debate in which each student speaks on behalf of the nation he or she is representing. You may choose to extend this activity by having students write a thesis-driven essay in which they assert their personal opinion about one or more of the issues debated. What follows are more lessons to help students understand the history of the Middle East.
History of the Middle East:
This lesson introduces students to the geography of the Middle East and how it has influenced international relations. Students map the changing borders in the region, beginning with the Ottoman Empire through the World Wars and then the 1948 creation of the state of Israel. This lesson offers opportunities for both independent and group work as well as for research and mapping skills.
For those looking to teach students about the natural resources in the Middle East, this National Geographic lesson provides an overview of the fight for oil and water in Iraq. The lesson can also be easily adapted and applied to other Middle East nations and their resources.
Why is the Middle East so Stereotyped in the West?
Students discuss the stereotypes of Middle Easterners held by Westerners and how they have impacted international relations. Students consider how misrepresentations of other cultures have led to misunderstandings and inaccurate stereotypes.
Students learn about the claims to Israel held by the world’s three monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. An examination of extremism and fundamentalism is also an important part of this lesson that can help students to understand the conflicts over land and, in particular, Israel.