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The USA–Turkey–Middle East: From the 20th Century to the Present

Pages 143-156 | Published online: 27 Apr 2013
 

Abstract

This study compares the cold war period and contemporary issues which involve the triangle with a focus on Iraq, Syria and Egypt. It traces turning points in the 20th century, present dilemmas and conclusions in a state of flux. Major conclusions are: that a cold war is re-emerging because of Russia's assertion of its world power status and Washington's claims to world leadership. The other is the conspicuous similarity in Turkey between the Democratic Party (1950–60) and the incumbent government who assume(d) that history, civilizational geopolitics and economy would facilitate transition of its proximate neighbourhood into American new world order(s). Evidence suggests why these efforts failed.

Notes

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[53] Ziya Öniş, ‘Turkey and the Arab Spring: between ethics and self-interest’, Insight Turkey, 14(3), 2012, pp. 1–19; p. 17.

[54] Sami Kohen, ‘Esad neden ateşle oynuyor?’ [Why is Assad playing with fire?], Milliyet Daily, 14 November 2012.

[55] Igor Pankratenko, ‘Yılanlarla Anlaşmak’ [Collaborating with the serpent], Vatan Daily, 14 November 2012.

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