COURSE DESCRIPTION
The Middle East has been a cauldron of conflict. This course will explore its history so that we can perceive today’s conflicts within their historical context. Being a history course, this will not be a referendum on present circumstances in the Middle East. Without endorsing or rejecting any faith, we shall consider the religious strife that has emblazoned Middle Eastern history and we shall recognize the link between religion and national identity. We also shall recognize salient incongruities that might exist between “faith stories” and historical facts. Yet we shall respect each person’s faith. Mixing religion and identity with historical and cultural incongruity can be an intellectually stimulating combination. Adding to it other intriguing elements, such as the Persian Empire, the Hellenistic influences proceeding from Alexander the Great, the Jewish presence, the Islamic Golden Age, the Christian Crusades, the Ottoman Empire, the underground oceans of oil, and the two World Wars, should create a fascinating course.

COURSE LEADER
Robert Nolan has a History degree from the University of Scranton, where he has been on the adjunct faculty, and a Law degree from Harvard University. This is the 12th History course that he has developed for the Evergreen Forum.

GENERAL INFORMATION
This Evergreen Forum course offers a hybrid experience, allowing participants to join the event either in-person or virtually via Zoom. Please carefully select your registration type, as participants are expected to attend programs based on their chosen in-person or virtual status. Should your circumstances change and you wish to adjust your registration, kindly contact us at 609-751-9699. Our CMAP staff will do their best to accommodate your request based on availability.

SENIOR SCHOLARSHIPS are available. Please contact Johanna Peters, Director of Social Services at 609.751.9699, ext. 111 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to submit a request form by following the link here to apply.

Any general questions or concerns about this event should be directed to CMAP at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by calling 609-751-9699.

REFUND INFORMATION
· We invite you to donate your refund to CMAP. Call us for more information
· Refund checks will be issued for cash, check, and credit card payments
· Payments made electronically will be refunded electronically
· Refund processing time is approximately 2 weeks
· Up to the start of the second week of an Evergreen Forum Course — refunds will be issued minus a $25 processing fee
· No refund will be offered after the second week of class.
· There will be a $25 processing fee for refunds to those who register for the same program more than once