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Saddam Hussein: A Political Biography Paperback – December 17, 2002

• Print length 320 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Grove Press
• Publication date December 17, 2002
• Dimensions 8.64 x 0.86 x 8.56 inches
• ISBN-10 0802139787
• ISBN-13 978-0802139788
• See all details

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Product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Grove Press; First Edition (December 17, 2002)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 320 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0802139787
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0802139788
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 13.3 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.64 x 0.86 x 8.56 inches
• #503 in Iraq History (Books)
• #1,188 in Historical Middle East Biographies
• #8,657 in Political Leader Biographies

About the author

Efraim karsh.

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The best books on Iraq

Recommended by colin freeman.

The Sunday Telegraph’s chief foreign correspondent on the dangers of being a journalist in the Iraq war. "When a little of group of kids wandered up and said, 'Hello mister, how are you?', it was time to leave"

The Spiders of Allah by James Hider

Saddam Hussein by Andrew Cockburn & Patrick Cockburn

Saddam by Con Coughlin

Red Zone by Oliver Poole

The Fall of Baghdad by Jon Lee Anderson

1 The Spiders of Allah by James Hider

2 saddam hussein by andrew cockburn & patrick cockburn, 3 saddam by con coughlin, 4 red zone by oliver poole, 5 the fall of baghdad by jon lee anderson.

J ames Hider’s book, The Spiders of Allah , has been criticised for being “macho” and I was wondering whether you think that’s a fair criticism?

This may sound a bit like special pleading, but there is occasionally a bit of sniffiness about reporters writing books about their time in a war zone. People think, “Oh it’s just another journo’s memoirs.” But in Hider’s case, and certainly in the case of Iraq generally, it’s true to say that, in terms of providing a westerner’s perspective, journalists were among the very few people who saw what was going on in Iraq from all sides. If you were with the military or the civilian administration you weren’t really allowed out of the Green Zones to see things for yourself. This was because of security concerns – it wasn’t that others weren’t prepared to take those risks. It’s just the way it was. So by talking to people from all walks of life and chronicling what was going on, I think Hider has done a very good job. He brings a whole country to life.

“In terms of providing a westerner’s perspective, journalists were among the very few people who saw what was going on in Iraq from all sides.”

Your second book, Saddam Hussein: An American Obsession, by the brothers Patrick and Andrew Cockburn, is not a biography of Saddam himself, is it?

I would describe it as a biography of the events of the 1990s. It describes a lot about what went on in Saddam’s regime, and very artfully weaves in some reportage that the authors have done themselves. One scene in particular stands out in my mind – when they meet one of Saddam’s sons in a nightclub.

There are also some very good accounts of what Iraq was like during the UN sanctions, when life for Iraqis became very difficult. But what you have to remember with this book and all those written in Saddam’s time is that reliable and accurate information is very hard to come by. To try to make sense of it is very admirable.

And what is also interesting are the descriptions of how people tried to lead military coups against Saddam using members of the Iraqi opposition, mostly from northern Iraq. It shows just how difficult it was to lead those coups and how formidable Saddam’s intelligence apparatus was. With every single unsuccessful attempt, all the inside agents would be arrested, and so the number of people who knew what was going on became ever smaller. When you read this book you realise that the option of launching a coup, which is something that a lot of people used to talk about, as if to say, “Why didn’t we do that rather than invade?”, was because it was actually hard. It had been attempted numerous times and no one had managed it.

Con Coughlin’s book, Saddam: The Secret Life , portrays a monster comparable to Stalin. How striking did you find the similarity?

Saddam expressed his admiration for Stalin on numerous occasions and describes him as not being a communist but a nationalist. And I think Saddam was trained by the KGB, which accounts in part for why he was able to run his country so brutally.

His book came out shortly before the war began and it was arguably one of the best-timed biographies of the century. If you were in Baghdad you would see all manner of people carrying copies of it. The American soldiers had it, the foreign civilian officials working with the US administration had it, all the journalists had it, and quite a lot of Iraqis were interested in getting copies.

It’s a fairly even-handed account of the history of Iraq from Saddam’s time onward. It’s very good at describing his life, which was often pretty rocky. Saddam was born into a fairly notorious tribe in Tikrit, in northern Iraq in a village known for violence. He was very much a guy born on the wrong side of the tracks. He was a criminal and, like many of the worst dictators, such as Stalin, he was a criminal before he was a politician, as well as a murderer and a thug. When people like that get hold of the reins of power it’s a recipe for disaster.

So the book’s based on good information?

Why did you choose Oliver Poole’s Red Zone: Five Bloody Years in Iraq ?

Because he returned to Iraq in 2005, when things were going from bad to worse. The situation then had become so awful that many people had simply written it off. In early 2006 the sectarian civil war started in earnest (although it had been going on for the best part of the year before, but no one was willing to admit it was happening). Reporting outside of two very small areas as a non-embedded reporter was a very difficult and dangerous job. There were so few areas that you could go to that most news bureaus had given up – myself included. The risk was just not worth the reward. But Oliver stuck it out and in doing so penned a book about that very dark period, much of which I haven’t read elsewhere.

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The accounts of how it all goes wrong in Basra are very good and it conveys the fear, the utter misery, and the sheer difficulty of working there. There is one part that sticks out in my mind, from a journalistic point of view. Oliver Poole visited the war cemetery in Baghdad sometime in 2006, and at that stage it was so dangerous for a foreigner to be there that when a little of group of kids wandered up and said, “Hello mister, how are you?”, it was time to leave. He and his translator knew the kids might wander off and tell an adult they’d seen a foreigner. When you have to be scared of children saying hello, it shows you how difficult things have become. Some people used to snipe and say that journalists in Iraq were sitting in hotels doing nothing, but I would say that if you have not been there it’s not fair to criticise.

You yourself were shot, and Poole’s translator’s brother was kidnapped?

They never found out what happened to him. The worst thing was the taunting phone calls made to the translator. They would say: “We have your brother here…”

When you and a Spanish photographer were kidnapped in Somalia for six weeks last year, did you have some terrible ideas running through your mind, having read this?

In John Lee Anderson’s book, The Fall of Baghdad , he interviews members of Saddam’s Ba’ath Party which must provide a different perspective from the other books?

Yes. He interviewed various Iraqis and shows the ambivalent relationship people had with the regime. He also includes some thorough and dextrous research. For example, he went to Iran and asked Iraqis there what they thought of Saddam and the US-led war and so on.

I would just say that if you want a book about the fall of Baghdad it’s a highly readable account, which I personally prize as being the most important thing in journalistic books. In my book I tried to be funny, which is always a risk. You have to be careful not to make cheap jokes about a very serious situation and it’s a fine line to tread between good and bad taste. I’ll leave it up to other people to decide whether I managed to do that or not.

To be honest, one of the reasons why I wrote the book the way I did was because when I came home people seemed genuinely curious to know what the basic things were like – the food, the people, the houses. It was different than if I’d been on a working trip to, say, Russia. I found that in answering those questions and telling my pub tales, as it were, the best material I had was the funny stuff. So I did not think I had the heart-rending anecdotes or, frankly, the literary ability to write a serious book.

But it’s a dark humour and it’s very effective. For example, when your translator tells you he has an ID card stating he is from a religious tribe and that it clearly commands the respect of other Iraqis, you ask him whether it’s better than having a gun. And he tells you very frankly that nothing is better than having a gun. Your book provides a lot of insight into some of the prevailing attitudes.

When I was kidnapped, I spent a lot of time laughing at how ludicrous the situation was to try to keep my spirits up, and I think people do the same thing during a war. But I should qualify that by saying that, at the end of the day, I was one of the lucky ones because nothing terribly traumatic happened to me. For a great number of people, mainly ordinary Iraqis, the whole thing offered very little to laugh at. It was just pure trauma. But as this was not the sort of thing that happened to me, and because I felt there were enough accounts that offered that perspective, I wrote a different type of book.

Books on serious subjects written with a sense of humour are more likely to be read by those who would not otherwise do so. And you can drip-feed information about the serious points. That can be a good alternative, and it goes against the presumption that a book about war reportage has to be, by definition, terribly serious.

October 5, 2009

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Colin Freeman

Colin Freeman is the Sunday Telegraph’s chief foreign correspondent. In August 2004 he was shot and assaulted by militia loyal to radical Shia cleric Moqtada al Sadr in the city of Basra. In 2008, researching a story about piracy in Somalia, he was kidnapped by his own bodyguards.  He and a Spanish photographer spent six weeks in a cave before being released unharmed. In 2005, following his return from Iraq, Freeman wrote The Curse of the Al Dulaimi Hotel and Other Half-Truths from Baghdad .

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Hemingway's Books and Records

Top 20 Best Books on Saddam Hussein:2024 Edition

Are you fascinated by the complex legacy of Saddam Hussein? Dive into the world of Iraq’s notorious dictator with our list of the 20 best books about Saddam Hussein. These books offer in-depth analysis, first-hand accounts, and gripping narratives that will give you a comprehensive understanding of one of the most enigmatic figures in modern history. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the man behind the headlines, these books on Saddam Hussein are a must-read.

• 1 20 Best Books About Saddam Hussein
• 2 Saddam Hussein: A Political Biography
• 3 The Longest War: The Iran-Iraq Military Conflict
• 4 Saddam Hussein: The Politics of Revenge
• 5 Saddam Hussein: A Biography
• 6 The Saddam Tapes: The Inner Workings of a Tyrant’s Regime, 1978-2001
• 7 The Siege of Mecca: The Forgotten Uprising in Islam’s Holiest Shrine and the Birth of Al Qaeda
• 8 The Iran-Iraq War: A Military and Strategic History
• 9 The Arab of the Future: A Childhood in the Middle East, 1978-1984
• 10 Republic of Fear: The Politics of Modern Iraq
• 11 The Dictator’s Shadow: Life Under Augusto Pinochet
• 12 The Iraq Wars
• 13 From Beirut to Jerusalem
• 14 Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books
• 15 The Iran Wars: Spy Games, Bank Battles, and the Secret Deals That Reshaped the Middle East
• 16 Saddam: His Rise and Fall
• 17 The Marsh Arabs
• 18 Arab Storm: Politics and Diplomacy Behind the Gulf War
• 19 A Peace to End All Peace: The Fall of the Ottoman Empire and the Creation of the Modern Middle East
• 20 Warriors of God: Inside Hezbollah’s Thirty-Year Struggle Against Israel
• 21 The Inside Story of the Peace Conference
• 22 Conclusion

20 Best Books About Saddam Hussein

See Best Deals

Saddam Hussein: A Political Biography

By efraim karsh.

Saddam Hussein: A Political Biography by Efraim Karsh is a comprehensive book about Saddam Hussein that delves into the life, rise to power, and reign of the controversial leader. Karsh provides a detailed account of Saddam Hussein’s early years, his climb to power within the Ba’ath Party, and his ruthless dictatorship over Iraq. The book offers insight into Hussein’s political maneuvering, his brutal suppression of dissent, and his aggressive foreign policy, particularly the invasion of Kuwait and the subsequent Gulf War. Karsh’s thorough research and analysis paint a complex portrait of a dictator who left a lasting impact on the Middle East and the world. The saddam hussein book sheds light on the tumultuous history of Iraq and the personality of one of its most infamous leaders.

The Longest War: The Iran-Iraq Military Conflict

By dilip hiro.

The Longest War: The Iran-Iraq Military Conflict by Dilip Hiro is a comprehensive and gripping account of the brutal and protracted war between Iran and Iraq. This book delves into the complex political and military dynamics that shaped the conflict, offering a deep understanding of the motivations and strategies of both nations. With meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Hiro explores the key events, battles, and the devastating impact on the people caught in the middle of the conflict.

Readers will gain valuable insights into the geopolitical power struggles in the region and the lasting repercussions of the war. For anyone interested in understanding the history of the Middle East and the rise of political leaders such as Saddam Hussein, this book is an essential read.

Saddam Hussein: The Politics of Revenge

By said k. aburish.

Saddam Hussein: The Politics of Revenge by Said K. Aburish is a gripping exploration of the life and political career of the infamous Iraqi leader. This book on Saddam Hussein delves into his rise to power, his ruthless tactics for maintaining control, and his lasting impact on the Middle East. Aburish provides a comprehensive analysis of Hussein’s reign, shedding light on his complex personality and the geopolitical forces that shaped his rule. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the author paints a vivid portrait of a dictator driven by a thirst for revenge and a desire for dominance. This book about Saddam Hussein is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the intricacies of power, politics, and the human psyche.

Saddam Hussein: A Biography

By shiva balaghi.

Saddam Hussein: A Biography by Shiva Balaghi is a comprehensive exploration of the life and reign of the controversial Iraqi leader. This compelling book delves into the political career and personal life of the former dictator, providing a nuanced understanding of his rise to power, his brutal regime, and his eventual downfall. Balaghi’s meticulous research and insightful analysis offer readers a deep insight into the complexities of Saddam’s rule, shedding light on the impact he had on Iraq and the wider Middle East region. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply curious about this polarizing figure, this book on Saddam Hussein is a captivating and illuminating read that provides a rich understanding of a man who shaped the course of modern history.

The Saddam Tapes: The Inner Workings of a Tyrant’s Regime, 1978-2001

By kevin m. woods.

The Saddam Tapes: The Inner Workings of a Tyrant’s Regime, 1978-2001 by Kevin M. Woods is a gripping book about Saddam Hussein that offers a rare and chilling insight into the mind of one of the most notorious dictators of the 20th century. Drawing on over 12,000 hours of tape recordings captured from the inner circle of Saddam’s regime, the author provides a detailed account of the daily operations, decision-making, and personal interactions of the Iraqi leader. The book delves into Saddam’s methods of control, his ruthless tactics, and his manipulation of power during his reign from 1978 to 2001. Through these tapes, readers gain a deeper understanding of the inner workings of a tyrant’s regime, shedding light on the complexities and horrors of Saddam’s rule. This saddam hussein book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of dictatorship and the impact of power on a nation.

The Siege of Mecca: The Forgotten Uprising in Islam’s Holiest Shrine and the Birth of Al Qaeda

By yaroslav trofimov.

The Siege of Mecca is a gripping account of the 1979 uprising in Islam’s holiest shrine, the Grand Mosque in Mecca, and its profound impact on the birth of Al Qaeda. Yaroslav Trofimov meticulously reconstructs the events of the siege, shedding light on the forgotten uprising that shook the Islamic world and had lasting implications for the region. The book provides a detailed examination of the political and religious tensions that led to the siege, offering a nuanced understanding of the complex forces at play. With a narrative that is both meticulously researched and vividly told, The Siege of Mecca is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the Middle East, the rise of extremist movements, and the complexities of Islamic politics.

The Iran-Iraq War: A Military and Strategic History

By williamson murray and kevin m. woods.

The Iran-Iraq War: A Military and Strategic History by Williamson Murray and Kevin M. Woods provides a comprehensive analysis of the devastating conflict between Iran and Iraq that lasted for eight years. This authoritative book delves into the military and strategic aspects of the war, offering valuable insights into the tactics and decision-making of both sides. The authors provide a detailed examination of the key battles, political maneuvering, and the impact of international involvement on the outcome of the conflict. With meticulous research and compelling narrative, this book offers a thorough understanding of the complexities and consequences of the war, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of the Middle East and the dynamics of regional conflicts. This is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of the Iran-Iraq War.

The Arab of the Future: A Childhood in the Middle East, 1978-1984

By riad sattouf.

The Arab of the Future: A Childhood in the Middle East, 1978-1984 is a graphic memoir by Riad Sattouf that offers an insightful and often humorous look at life in the Middle East during the late 1970s and early 1980s. The book follows Sattouf’s experiences growing up in Libya, Syria, and France, and his observations of the political and social climate in the region. Through his unique perspective as a child, Sattouf provides a compelling account of the complexities of life under authoritarian rule, offering a personal and engaging portrayal of the era. The book provides a fascinating glimpse into the realities of living under a dictatorship, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a firsthand account of life under a leader like Saddam Hussein.

Republic of Fear: The Politics of Modern Iraq

By kanan makiya.

Republic of Fear: The Politics of Modern Iraq by Kanan Makiya is a gripping and insightful book on Saddam Hussein’s brutal regime. Makiya, a prominent Iraqi dissident, offers a chilling portrayal of the pervasive atmosphere of fear and oppression that characterized Saddam Hussein’s rule. Through personal accounts and detailed analysis, Makiya provides a comprehensive understanding of the political dynamics and mechanisms of control in Iraq during this tumultuous period. This book about Saddam Hussein is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and politics of the Middle East, as well as for those seeking to comprehend the complexities of dictatorship and its impact on society. Republic of Fear offers a compelling and harrowing narrative that sheds light on the dark and oppressive realities of Saddam Hussein’s reign.

The Dictator’s Shadow: Life Under Augusto Pinochet

By heraldo muñoz.

The Dictator’s Shadow: Life Under Augusto Pinochet by Heraldo Muñoz is a compelling account of the oppressive regime of the Chilean dictator. Muñoz, a respected diplomat and writer, delves into the intricacies of Pinochet’s rule, shedding light on the human rights abuses, political repression, and economic turmoil that characterized his regime. Drawing on extensive research and personal insights, the book offers a gripping portrayal of life under a brutal dictatorship and the enduring impact it had on Chilean society. Muñoz’s narrative is both haunting and enlightening, providing a valuable perspective on the complexities of power, resistance, and resilience in the face of tyranny. For those interested in understanding the dynamics of authoritarian rule, The Dictator’s Shadow is a must-read.

Recommended for you:

The Iraq Wars

By lloyd gardner.

The Iraq Wars by Lloyd Gardner is a comprehensive exploration of the tumultuous history of Iraq, with a focus on the reign of the controversial leader, Saddam Hussein. This gripping book delves into the complex geopolitical landscape that led to the series of conflicts in the region, shedding light on the intricate web of alliances, power struggles, and military interventions. Gardner’s insightful analysis offers a deep understanding of the motivations and actions of key players, painting a vivid picture of the Iraq Wars and their enduring impact on the Middle East and the world. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or seeking to understand the intricate dynamics of the region, this book about Saddam Hussein is an essential read that provides valuable insights into one of the most influential figures in modern history.

From Beirut to Jerusalem

By thomas l. friedman.

From Beirut to Jerusalem by Thomas L. Friedman is a captivating exploration of the complex history and politics of the Middle East. The book provides a firsthand account of the author’s experiences as a journalist in Lebanon and Israel, offering valuable insights into the region’s conflicts and tensions. Friedman’s engaging and informative writing style makes this book a compelling read for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the Middle East. Whether you’re a history buff, a political enthusiast, or simply curious about the region, this book is a must-read for its vivid portrayal of the people, places, and events that have shaped the Middle East. With its thought-provoking analysis and personal anecdotes, From Beirut to Jerusalem is an essential read for anyone seeking to unravel the complexities of the region.

Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books

By azar nafisi.

Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books by Azar Nafisi is a captivating and poignant memoir that offers a unique glimpse into life in Iran during the oppressive reign of Saddam Hussein. Nafisi, a literature professor, recounts her experience of gathering a group of female students in her home to read and discuss Western literary classics, despite the strict censorship and surveillance imposed by the regime. Through the lens of literature, Nafisi provides a powerful portrayal of the challenges, restrictions, and resilience of women in Iran during a tumultuous period. The book offers a compelling blend of personal narrative, literary analysis, and political commentary, making it a thought-provoking and enlightening read for anyone interested in the intersection of literature and society, and the impact of authoritarian rule on intellectual freedom.

The Iran Wars: Spy Games, Bank Battles, and the Secret Deals That Reshaped the Middle East

By jay solomon.

The Iran Wars by Jay Solomon is a compelling account of the covert operations, financial battles, and secret negotiations that have shaped the Middle East, with a particular focus on the complex relationship between Iran and the United States. This book delves into the spy games, bank battles, and diplomatic deals that have defined the region’s geopolitics. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the historical context, Solomon sheds light on the intricate web of alliances, betrayals, and power struggles that have characterized the Iran-U.S. relationship. From the Iran-Iraq war to the nuclear negotiations, this book offers a comprehensive overview of the tumultuous events that have unfolded in the region. If you’re interested in a book about Saddam Hussein and the political dynamics of the Middle East, this is a must-read.

Saddam: His Rise and Fall

By con coughlin.

Saddam: His Rise and Fall by Con Coughlin is a gripping book about Saddam Hussein, the notorious leader of Iraq. Coughlin delves into the life of the enigmatic and ruthless dictator, exploring his ascent to power and eventual downfall. The saddam hussein book offers a compelling account of Saddam’s early years, his brutal regime, and the events that led to his ultimate demise. Coughlin’s vivid storytelling and in-depth research bring to life the complexities of Saddam’s rule and the impact it had on Iraq and the world. This book on Saddam Hussein is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the man behind the headlines and the turbulent history of Iraq.

The Marsh Arabs

By wilfred thesiger.

The Marsh Arabs by Wilfred Thesiger is a captivating account of the author’s time spent living among the Ma’dan, a tribe of marsh-dwelling people in southern Iraq. Thesiger’s evocative descriptions of the unique landscape, the customs and traditions of the Ma’dan, and their way of life provide a fascinating insight into a culture that has since been drastically altered by modern developments.

Thesiger’s deep respect and appreciation for the Marsh Arabs shines through in his writing, making this book a captivating and immersive read. The book provides a valuable historical and cultural perspective on a region that has undergone significant changes in recent years, making it a must-read for anyone interested in Middle Eastern history and anthropology.

Although the book doesn’t directly focus on Saddam Hussein, it offers valuable insights into the region and its people, shedding light on a way of life that has been impacted by political and social changes.

Arab Storm: Politics and Diplomacy Behind the Gulf War

By alan munro.

Arab Storm: Politics and Diplomacy Behind the Gulf War by Alan Munro is a captivating exploration of the intricate political landscape that led to the Gulf War. Munro delves into the complex relationships and power dynamics between the Arab nations, shedding light on the motivations and actions of key figures such as Saddam Hussein. This insightful book offers a detailed examination of the diplomatic maneuvers and strategic decisions that shaped the conflict, providing a comprehensive understanding of the events that unfolded. With its in-depth analysis and compelling narrative, Arab Storm is a must-read for anyone seeking to gain a deeper insight into the politics and diplomacy surrounding the Gulf War. If you’re interested in a book about Saddam Hussein and the Gulf War, this is the one for you.

A Peace to End All Peace: The Fall of the Ottoman Empire and the Creation of the Modern Middle East

By david fromkin.

A Peace to End All Peace is a captivating historical narrative by David Fromkin that delves into the intricate web of events that led to the downfall of the Ottoman Empire and the subsequent creation of the modern Middle East. Fromkin meticulously examines the political maneuverings, power struggles, and geopolitical interests that shaped the region during and after World War I. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex origins of the modern Middle East, as it provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the historical forces at play. From the Sykes-Picot Agreement to the Balfour Declaration, Fromkin skillfully unpacks the significant events and decisions that continue to reverberate in the region today. If you are fascinated by the history and geopolitics of the Middle East, A Peace to End All Peace is an essential addition to your reading list.

Warriors of God: Inside Hezbollah’s Thirty-Year Struggle Against Israel

By nicholas blanford.

Warriors of God: Inside Hezbollah’s Thirty-Year Struggle Against Israel by Nicholas Blanford is a gripping account of the rise of Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group, and its relentless battle against Israel. Blanford, a renowned journalist and expert on the Middle East, provides a detailed and comprehensive history of Hezbollah, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a powerful force in the region. Through extensive research and interviews with key players, Blanford offers valuable insights into the group’s ideology, tactics, and internal dynamics. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of the Middle East and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

The Inside Story of the Peace Conference

By emile joseph dillon.

The Inside Story of the Peace Conference by Emile Joseph Dillon offers a fascinating account of the negotiations and decisions that shaped the post-World War I world. With meticulous detail, Dillon delves into the political maneuvering and personal dynamics that defined the Paris Peace Conference, providing readers with a behind-the-scenes look at the key players and their motivations. This insightful book sheds light on the complexities of international diplomacy and the challenges of forging lasting peace in the aftermath of a global conflict. For history enthusiasts and those interested in the intricacies of diplomatic negotiations, this book is a must-read.

Exploring the complex and controversial life of Saddam Hussein through literature is a fascinating journey. The 20 best books about Saddam Hussein offer diverse perspectives, deep insights, and thought-provoking analyses of his rule and impact on Iraq and the world. Whether you’re interested in history, politics, or human psychology, these books provide a comprehensive understanding of one of the most enigmatic figures in modern history.

Discover the multifaceted narratives, gripping accounts, and compelling stories that shed light on Saddam Hussein’s legacy and the turbulent era he shaped. From biographies to investigative journalism, these books offer a comprehensive and in-depth look at the man and his tumultuous reign. Delve into these captivating works to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding Saddam Hussein and his lasting influence on the Middle East and global politics.

Which Saddam Hussein book is best?

The best book on Saddam Hussein can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

• Saddam Hussein: A Political Biography by Efraim Karsh ,
• The Longest War: The Iran-Iraq Military Conflict by Dilip Hiro ,
• Saddam Hussein: The Politics of Revenge by Said K. Aburish .

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Saddam Hussein?

For those looking to learn about Saddam Hussein, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

• Saddam Hussein: The Politics of Revenge by Said K. Aburish ,
• Saddam Hussein: A Biography by Shiva Balaghi ,
• The Saddam Tapes: The Inner Workings of a Tyrant’s Regime, 1978-2001 by Kevin M. Woods ,
• The Siege of Mecca: The Forgotten Uprising in Islam’s Holiest Shrine and the Birth of Al Qaeda by Yaroslav Trofimov ,
• The Iran-Iraq War: A Military and Strategic History by Williamson Murray and Kevin M. Woods ,
• The Arab of the Future: A Childhood in the Middle East, 1978-1984 by Riad Sattouf ,
• Republic of Fear: The Politics of Modern Iraq by Kanan Makiya ,
• The Dictator’s Shadow: Life Under Augusto Pinochet by Heraldo Muñoz

These books offer a range of perspectives on Saddam Hussein, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books on Saddam Hussein?

The best books on Saddam Hussein include:

• The Iraq Wars by Lloyd Gardner ,
• From Beirut to Jerusalem by Thomas L. Friedman ,
• The Siege of Mecca: The Forgotten Uprising in Islam’s Holiest Shrine and the Birth of Al Qaeda by Yaroslav Trofimov .

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Saddam Hussein are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Saddam Hussein books of all time?

Choosing the best Saddam Hussein books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include

• The Dictator’s Shadow: Life Under Augusto Pinochet by Heraldo Muñoz ,
• and The Iraq Wars by Lloyd Gardner .

Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Saddam Hussein and continues to be influential today.

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Saddam Hussein: A Biography (Greenwood Biographies)

Description.

In July 1979, Saddam Hussein became the President of Iraq. His dictum was simply expressed--power through terror. During the first decade of his presidency, Saddam engaged in three wars: the Iran-Iraq War, the invasion of Kuwait, and the Gulf War of 1991. After September 11th, the war on terrorism led to the war against Iraq that began in March 2003 and the eventual capture of Sadddam Hussein effecitively ending his rule over the Iraqi people. On April 9, 2003, a handful of U.S. Marines helped a small crowd of Iraqis gathered in Firdos Square to tear down a statue of Saddam Hussein. Since his capture, Saddam has been transferred to Iraqi legal custody and awaits his trial for atrocities committed during his regime.

This biography details Saddam's difficult childhood in Tikrit and his politically influential teenage years in Baghdad with his uncle. His involvement with the Iraqi Ba'ath Party led to his participation in an assassination attempt on then Prime Minister Qassem. In his early political life, Saddam retained the lessons of village life learned in his difficult Tikrit childhood, but they would become enmeshed with his discovery of Ba'athism and pan-Arabism. Once he became President of Iraq, Saddam often ruled with force and a carefully cultivated image throughout the use of visual imagery and books. Though Saddam no longer rules Iraq, the legacy of his reign will likely shape Iraqi history for years to come.

About the Author

Shiva Balaghi is Associate Director of Kevorkian Center for Near Eastern Studies at New York University.

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Saddam Hussein: A Political Biography Paperback – 1 January 2002

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• Print length 320 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Grove Press
• Publication date 1 January 2002
• Dimensions 21.95 x 2.18 x 21.74 cm
• ISBN-10 0802139787
• ISBN-13 978-0802139788
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Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Grove Press; 2nd printing edition (1 January 2002)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 320 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0802139787
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0802139788
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 376 g
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 21.95 x 2.18 x 21.74 cm
• #2,985 in Middle Eastern History (Books)
• #57,500 in Biographies & Autobiographies (Books)

About the author

Efraim karsh.

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Saddam Hussein: The Biography (A Complete Life from Beginning to the End‪)‬

Publisher description.

History Hub presents a brief biography of Saddam Hussein from beginning to end, whose remarkable story impacts our lives even today.  In 2003, the whole world was sent into a frenzy when the United States and its allied forces declared war against Iraq. Iraqi president and dictator, Saddam Hussein, didn't heed any of the warnings from his western foes. Despite not having the upper hand for the war, Hussein led his troops forward, even at the cost of the lives of hundreds of thousands. Many people may have seen Hussein as nothing but an evil dictator. Yet, he was also a man who did everything he could to fight for his country in the interest of nationalism. Discover in this short yet concise biography the remarkable story of a life who impacted future generations. This book also contains 30 questions for an in-depth discussion into the life of Saddam Hussein. Download your copy now on sale Read on your PC, Mac, iOS or Android smartphone, tablet devices.