Inside Iraq: A 5000-Year History of War, Profit, and Conflict

When we think of Iraq, images of war, destruction, and conflict often come to mind. It is a country that has been plagued by violence for decades, with countless lives lost and infrastructure shattered. However, it is also a land with a rich and complex history, spanning over 5000 years, where war and profit have consistently intertwined.

The ancient land of Mesopotamia, known as the cradle of civilization, is located in present-day Iraq. It was here that the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians built great empires, each marked by a legacy of war, conquest, and the pursuit of wealth. These early civilizations fought against rival city-states, vying for power and control over fertile lands, water sources, and crucial trade routes.

One of the most renowned conflicts in Iraq's history is the epic battle of Hammurabi, the sixth king of Babylon. Hammurabi is famously known for his Code of Laws, which established a set of rules to govern the kingdom. However, he was also a skilled military strategist who waged numerous wars to expand his empire. His conquests brought immense wealth and resources to Babylon, solidifying its status as a dominant power in the region.

Banking on Baghdad: Inside Iraq's 7,000-year History of War, Profit, and Conflict

by David Aaronovitch(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	18609 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	576 pages

FREE

The rise and fall of empires continued throughout Iraq's history. The Assyrians, known for their superior military tactics, carved out a vast empire that stretched from Egypt to Persia. The Babylonians regained their power under Nebuchadnezzar II, who famously conquered Jerusalem and sent many Israelites into exile. The Persians, Macedonians, and Parthians later followed, each leaving their mark on the region through conquest and conflict.

More recent history has seen the Ottoman Empire's rule over Iraq, followed by the colonization by the British after World War I. The discovery of vast oil reserves in the early 20th century brought immense profit to foreign powers, leading to increased political and economic interests in the region. Iraq's resources became a focal point for global powers, driving conflicts and shaping the geopolitical landscape.

In the late 20th century, Iraq became embroiled in a series of devastating wars. The Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s lasted for eight years and resulted in staggering casualties on both sides. Following this, Iraq invaded Kuwait in 1990, triggering the Gulf War, where an international coalition led by the United States liberated Kuwait and inflicted significant damage on Iraq's military capabilities.

The most recent and well-known conflict in Iraq's history is the Iraq War that began in 2003. This war, led by the U.S.-led coalition, aimed to topple Saddam Hussein's regime and eliminate any perceived threats to global security. However, the consequences of the invasion and subsequent occupation were far-reaching, leading to a prolonged and bloody insurgency, sectarian violence, and the rise of extremist groups such as ISIS.

Throughout Iraq's history, war and conflict have often been intertwined with profit. This is particularly evident in the modern era, where the presence of vast oil reserves has attracted the attention of powerful nations seeking economic dominance. The control and exploitation of Iraq's resources have provided lucrative opportunities for profit, but at the expense of stability and peace.

However, it is important to remember that Iraq's history is not solely defined by war and conflict. It is a land rich in culture, heritage, and contributions to civilization. From the ancient wonders of Babylon to the magnificent Islamic architectural marvels, Iraq is home to a wealth of historical sites and cultural artifacts.

Despite the challenges it has faced, Iraq's people continue to strive for peace and stability. They yearn for a future where their nation's history is celebrated, and the scars of war are healed. As the world moves forward, it is crucial to acknowledge the past and learn from it, offering support and understanding to the people of Iraq on their journey towards a brighter future.

, Iraq's 5000-year history is a testament to the enduring relationship between war, profit, and conflict. From the ancient empires to the modern era, the pursuit of power and wealth has shaped the nation's course. As we reflect on Iraq's past, let us not forget the resilience of its people and their unwavering resolve to build a peaceful and prosperous future.

Banking on Baghdad: Inside Iraq's 7,000-year History of War, Profit, and Conflict

by David Aaronovitch(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	18609 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	576 pages

FREE

In Banking on Baghdad, New York Times and international bestselling author Edwin Black chronicles the dramatic and tragic history of a land long the center of world commerce and conflict. Tracing the involvement of Western governments and militaries, as well as oil, banking, and other corporate interests, Black pinpoints why today, just as throughout modern history, the world needs Iraq's resources—and remains determined to acquire and protect them. Banking on Baghdad almost painfully documents the many ways Iraq's recent history mirrors its tumultuous past.