Recommend reading - The Great Game
By J Norman MarshI am currently reading a book entitled The Great Game by Peter Hopkirk. It is a fascinating read that describes, as its subtitle suggests, the struggle for empire in Central Asia. Through the use of story, biography and anecdote culled from the original manuscripts of those who lived it, Hopkirk outlines the centuries-long battle to lay claim to the vast region of difficult terrain between the great powers of the 17th to 20th centuries: Russia, British India, Persia, China and Mongolia. This should be required reading for anyone wishing to comment on the US involvement in Afghanistan or Central Asian/Mid-East policy in general. It also puts Russia’s recent invasion of Georgia in the proper context.
While I am only halfway through it, I can honestly say that I will never look at the “Stan” countries on the map quite the same. Who knew that Uzbekistan, et al had such a scintillating history? Why don’t they teach these things in school anymore?
- Norm
Thaddeus Cook Said,
November 22, 2008 @ 10:08 am
“Why don’t they teach these things in school anymore?”
My guess is that because our public schools have become indoctrination centers rather than education centers. Teachers focus on self esteem, “good citizenship” (read: unquestioning dependence on the state), and social justice (ie. class warfare).
Think the current members of Congress are seriously lacking? Just wait until this generation takes over…