This book explores the foundations of the ISIS/IS terror organization whose violent and stunning victories have galvanized the world. It seeks to not only tell the story of its history; but perhaps most importantly, explain its funding, leadership, motivations and ultimate goals and vision through an intelligent and thoughtful perspective that examines where Western leadership went wrong and the often cynical calculations that have been made. Ironically, many of those decisions not only damaged relations with the Arab world but-as perceptive readers are sure to discover-policies that damaged their home countries as well. It also critically examines Middle Eastern history through Arab eyes in its relations with the West; making the case that understanding our rivals is a testament to strength not weakness. Constant references and comparisons are made to past historical events so that readers are continually reminded the importance of learning from history and its evolving characteristics. The book concludes with thoughtful recommendations on how the West should respond to the turmoil in the Middle East along with the prospects for the most probable outcomes.
