The Iraq War Encyclopedia

(Hardback)

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Description

This reference work is an ideal resource for anyone interested in better understanding the controversial Iraq War. It treats the war in its entirety, covering politics, religion, and history, as well as military issues. The Iraq War started in 2003 in a quest to rid the nation of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) that were never found. It lasted over 8 years, during which more than 30,000 U.S. service members were wounded and almost 4,500 American lives lost. Comprised of some 275 entries, this comprehensive encyclopedia examines the war from multiple points of view. Each article is written by an expert with specialized knowledge of the topic. The reference covers every aspect of the Iraq War, from the U.S. invasion (Operation IRAQI FREEDOM) through the rise of Al Qaeda in Iraq, the surge, and the U.S. withdrawal. Other significant aspects of the conflict are addressed as well, including Abu Ghraib, WMDs, the controversial use of private military contractors, and Britain's role in the war. The book also features an overview essay, a "causes and consequences" essay, maps, photos, a chronology, and a bibliography.

Reviews

High-quality black-and-white maps and a short chapter on each of the causes and the consequences of the conflict open this concise but thorough work. Together they form a comprehensive discussion of the Iraq War that will enable students to gain an adequate understanding of the subject. . . . This title deserves serious consideration in libraries that need material on this era of American, world, or Middle East history. * School Library Journal *
Comprehensive and balanced . . . writing is often fresh, with little duplication, and statistics are current . . . recommended for most academic, public, and high school libraries. * Booklist *
A valuable addition for public, academic, and school libraries. * Library Journal *
Mockaitis is highly qualified to organize and edit this excellent ABC-CLIO reference work. * ARBA *

Author Bio

Thomas R. Mockaitis, PhD, is professor of history at DePaul University, Chicago, IL.