In spite of its short duration, the rise and demise of the United Arab Republic the union between Egypt and Syria (195861) is considered a seminal episode in the modern history of the Arab world. At the time, many Arabs hoped that the union would herald realization of the pan-Arab dream, but its disintegration shattered this dream beyond repair. With the wisdom of hindsight it is also clear that this episode had a significant, lasting impact on the evolution of Arab politics. -- From the Foreword by Moshe Maoz, author of "Asad: The Sphinx of Damascus"<br />A superb narrative and analysis long overdue. -- Choice Outstanding Academic Book<br />"An important book. Podehs is the most reliable of the histories of the union." -- The International History Review