Middle Eastern History


Feature Writer: Neil Gunn
Neil in Northern Jordan, Neil Gunn

From the earliest civilisations to Biblical times, from the era of the Crusades to the Ottoman Empire and the founding of its modern nations, in times of peace and of conflict, the history of the Middle East is as rich and diverse as any region of the world.

Discover, in these pages, the history of some of the peoples that have made their mark in this vast and influential part of the world. Among them: the Persians, Jews, Arabs and Nabateans.

Explore through the written word, the history of the great cities of this vast region: Jerusalem, Baghdad and Damascus to name but a few.

It’s hoped that over the coming months and years Suite’s writers will provide a unique and valuable record for both students and those simply curious about Middle Eastern history.

feature articles
Neil Gunn

The Gates of Jerusalem

In: Middle Eastern History (general)

Since Nehemiah's reconstruction of Jerusalem's city walls, the gates to this holy place have had a special significance for Jerusalem's citizens and its many visitors. more...

The Final Weeks of King Hussein of Jordan

In: Middle Eastern History (general)

His Majesty King Hussein bin Talal, widely regarded as the 'father' of modern Jordan, died on February 7,1999, after a long illness. more...

Samarkand – Timur's Royal Capital City

In: Middle Eastern History (general)

Samarkand, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a hugely important historical site standing proudly on the ancient Silk Route in what is now modern Uzbekistan. more...

Cyrus Cylinder – First Charter of Human Rights?

In: Ancient Middle Eastern History

The BBC has recently reported that Iran has threatened to stop cultural co-operation with the British Museum if the Babylonian Cyrus Cylinder is not returned on loan. more...

The Church of the Nativity Bethlehem

In: Middle Eastern History (general)

The Church of the Nativity in Manger Square in the centre of Bethlehem is one of Christianity's most revered sites. It is according to tradition the birthplace of Jesus more...

Knights Templar try to Build Support in Europe

In: Crusades

Following the final defeats in the Holy Land, Jacques de Molay the Grand Master of the Knights Templar left Cyprus in 1294 for an extended journey through Europe. more...

The Demise of Knights Templar in Holy Land

In: Crusades

The Knights Templar emerged from the first Crusader army in order to protect Christian pilgrims moving from the Mediterranean ports to the holy city of Jerusalem. more...

Overview of Ancient Persian City of Persepolis

In: Persian History

Around five hundred and eighteen years before the birth of Jesus, Darius I, perhaps the greatest of all the Achaemenid kings, founded the Persian city of Persepolis. more...

All feature articles in Middle Eastern History

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