With the departure of imperial powers-and on its own for the first time in almost two centuries-the Middle East must now resolve its political, economic, cultural, and societal problems in order to advance its civilization. In this volume, historian Bernard Lewis discusses the future of the region in this new era: will its nations face cooperation and progress or a vicious cycle of poverty and ignorance? The author examines the most critical issues in detail. Oil may be the Middle East’s most important export, but technology will eventually make it obsolete, he warns, leaving those who depend on oil revenues with a bleak future. Water will become a contentious issue between nations. The role of Turkey, Israel, and women in the region are the most potentially transformative factors. If freedom fails and terror triumphs, says Lewis, the peoples of Islam will be the first and greatest victims.