A Modern History of the Kurds

A Modern History of the Kurds, by David McDowall, is a ground-breaking history that traces the journey of the Kurds from the 19th century to the present day. The book documents the underlying dynamics of the Kurdish question.

The division of the Kurdish people among the modern nation states of Iraq, Turkey, Syria, and Iran, and their ongoing struggle for national rights, continues to influence Middle Eastern politics. Drawing extensively on primary sources—including documents from The National Archive and interviews with prominent Kurds— the book examines the interplay between old and new aspects of their struggle, the importance of local rivalries and leadership within Kurdish society, and the failure of modern states to address the challenge of Kurdish nationalism.

In this new and revised edition, McDowall analyses the significant transformations affecting Kurdish socio-politics over the last 20 years. With updates throughout and substantial new material, this fourth edition reflects developments in the field, highlighting areas that have gained greater importance and understanding. New analysis includes the Kurdish experience in Syria, the role of political Islam in Kurdish society, and Kurds' involvement in Islamist Jihad.

The book also addresses issues surrounding women and gender that were previously overlooked, examining the impact of the women's equality movement and how patriarchal practices within the Kurdish community still limit progress.

As a foundation text for Kurdish Studies, A Modern History of the Kurds provides a detailed examination of the changing situation of the Kurds across the Middle East.