Violent Politics: A History of Insurgency, Terrorism, and Guerrilla War, from the American Revolution to Iraq - William R. Polk

Noted Middle East expert Polk sets the current Iraqi crisis within the context of world history as he illuminates the role played by guerrilla warriors in several conflicts throughout history, including the American Revolution and struggles in Ireland, Algeria, and Spain. Guerrilla warfare is not just the tool of modern-day terrorists in the Middle East. Its roots stretch back to our very own revolution. In Violent Politics , William R. Polk takes us on a concise, brilliant tour of insurgencies throughout history, beginning with America's own struggle for independence. Continuing on, Polk explores the role of insurgency in other notable conflicts--including the Spanish guerrilla war against Napoleon, the Irish struggle for independence, the Algerian War of National Independence, and Vietnam--eventually landing at the ongoing campaigns in Afghanistan and Iraq, where the lessons of this history are needed more than ever.