Iran, Iraq, and the Legacies of War Hardcover - 2004

First line

The relationship between Iran and Iraq, since Iraq achieved independence in 1932, has been marked by periods of alliance and cooperation and also periods of rivalry, friction, and devastating war.

From the jacket flap

"Despite America's costly entanglement in the Persian Gulf, we know surprisingly little about gulf politics. This important book helps fill this void. Unlike many studies that are collections of unrelated articles bound together by an introductory statement, this volume provides carefully integrated themes and rigorous analysis. Its authors are well-informed and their creative insights are found throughout the book." --James A. Bill, the College of William and Mary and author of "The Eagle and the Lion: The Tragedy of American-Iranian Relations"
"This outstanding collection of well-written and researched chapters provides indispensable background for the current complex and troubled situation in Iraq, Iran, and the Gulf. Among other questions, it provides new and vital information on the Iraqi Kurds and Shi'is, the truth about chemical weapons use in the first Gulf War, and the U.S. role in the region. Knowledge of the matters so well covered in this book could have prevented many U.S. governmental mistakes in the region and could today provide a basis for more informed and successful policies."--Nikki Keddie, UCLA