What Went Wrong? by Bernard Lewis

What Went Wrong? The Clash Between Islam and Modernity in the Middle East by Bernard Lewis

In What Went Wrong?, renowned historian Bernard Lewis explores the dramatic shift in the balance of power between the Islamic world and the West. For centuries, the Islamic world was a leader in military strength, economic power, and cultural and scientific achievements. Meanwhile, Europe was regarded as a backward, barbaric land. But over time, the West began to win battles, dominate economically, and ascend in global influence, leaving the Islamic world struggling to understand its sudden decline.

In this insightful and elegantly written volume, Lewis examines how the Islamic world responded to being overtaken by the West. He explores how Middle Eastern nations sought to adopt European advancements in weaponry, industry, government, and education, while also grappling with internal conflicts and challenges. Lewis traces the divergent reactions in the region—some blaming external forces, while others asked the harder question, "Where did we go wrong?" This book provides a nuanced analysis of the cultural and historical factors that shaped the Middle East’s response to modernity and its ongoing struggles with Western influence.

Why You’ll Love This Book:

You’ll love What Went Wrong? for its deep historical analysis and Bernard Lewis’s masterful storytelling. This book offers a thought-provoking examination of the complex relationship between the Islamic world and the West, tracing the cultural and political forces that led to the decline of Islamic power and influence. Lewis’s expertise provides readers with a nuanced perspective on the clash between Islam and modernity, and his balanced approach to this sensitive topic makes it an essential read for those interested in history, international relations, and the dynamics of cultural change. Whether you are a scholar or a curious reader, What Went Wrong? will offer invaluable insights into the Middle East’s past and present.