Iraq
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Introduction
IntroductionOverview
Purpose
The United States is committed to on-going involvement with Iraq to rebuildthe country. Marines, who deploy to Iraq or are involved with Iraqis, need abasic knowledge of the country, its culture, history and present-day state of affairs.
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This handbook explains a number of basic issues that should be in theknowledge “toolbox” of a Marine working with Iraqis or deployed to theregion.
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You can use the links that form an integral part of this document toexplore further any of the topics discussed in this handbook.
Contents
This handbook includes the following topics:
Topic See Page
Introduction iOverview iIraqi Culture, History, and Religion 1Culture and Peoples 1Kurds 3Iraqi Economy and Livelihood 6Religious Division or Iraqi Nationalism? 8Another “Division”: Secular vice Religious 10Tribes and Villages 11Iraqi History: A Rich and Ancient Past 13Islam: The Crown and Thorn in Iraq’s History 15British Influence 18Rise of Saddam Hussein: Background 19Rise of Saddam Hussein: Baath Party 21Saddam Hussein, Former Leader of Iraq 23Saddam Hussein’s Policies 25Kurdish Oppression 26Internal Control 28International Response to Saddam Hussein’s Oppression 31Iran-Iraq War, External Domination 32Persian Gulf War 34
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