The Strong Horse: Power, Politics, and the Clash of Arab Civilizations

The Strong Horse by Lee Smith is a groundbreaking book that challenges the conventional wisdom on the Middle East.

Through extensive reporting and analysis, Smith reveals the true nature of the region's conflicts and offers a fresh perspective on America's role in shaping its future.

He argues that the turmoil in the Middle East is not the result of Western interference, but rather a clash of Arab civilizations that has been brewing for centuries. Smith debunks the myth that dictators are the primary source of oppression in countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Syria, instead highlighting the role of rigid social and religious norms in stifling individual rights and freedoms.

He also sheds light on the complex dynamics of sectarian violence, demonstrating that authoritarian regimes are often the only means of maintaining stability in a region with no liberal tradition, reverence for individual rights, or tolerance for difference. Throughout the book, Smith provides insightful and thought-provoking analysis that challenges readers to reconsider their assumptions about the Middle East.

The Strong Horse is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the region's complexities and the role that America can play in shaping its future.