What do you think?
Rate this book
Israel and Palestine: The Complete History [2019 Edition]
In July 2018, Israel’s Knesset approved the Nation-State Bill, a controversial piece of legislation, both at home and abroad, which declared Israel a sovereign state for the Jewish people. It followed US President Donald Trump’s 2017 decision to relocate the United States embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Both events provoked consternation and scorn from many countries, and offer the latest twists in the Israeli-Palestinian two peoples on an everlasting – and seemingly irreconcilable – path to peace. Israel and The Complete History seeks to explain the overall story of Israeli and Palestinian tensions and divisions in the region. Indeed, without properly understanding the full history of the area, it is impossible to understand the current situation. In this book, author Ian Carroll takes the reader back to the very beginning of the conflict some 4,000 years ago, then moves through the major events of the Middle Ages and 20th century, and brings us right up to the present day, documenting the significant events that have happened along the way. The reader is allowed to make up their own mind as to where praise and condemnation belong with this complicated issue. From Exodus to the birth of Jesus, from Islam to the Crusades, through the Diaspora and up to the recreation of the modern state of Israel and beyond, Israel and The Complete History avoids a dry academic approach. It aims to tell the history of the region and peoples in a balanced and brisk fashion, from a storyteller’s perspective. With talk of a Third Intifada and the introduction of the Nation-State Bill all bringing this age-old issue to the forefront of world news once more, there has never been a more appropriate time to understand and appreciate Israel and Palestine’s history. This is an updated, expanded, and re-edited version of “Israel / Palestine – a 4000 year history” by Ian Carroll, originally published in 2006.
201 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 21, 2019
127 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 1, 2024
The book is incredibly well explained for a topic as complex as this one, so my first 5-star rating of the year.
Better if I let explain the author:
“I first became interested in the story of Israel and Palestine in 2002, at the height of the Second Intifada or uprising of the Palestinian people against Israel. Images of stone-throwing youths confronting tanks flashed nightly across my television screen. And I, a 36-year-old writer, resident in Liverpool, with no affinity in either direction, wondered why they were fighting and how it would end. I wanted to get involved somehow, but I understood that a little knowledge was a dangerous thing, and I did not know enough about it to take sides. Instead, I resolved to go back to the beginning of time, to find out who was there first and document EVERYTHING that had happened since. Only then might it be possible to decide where right lay in this complicated issue. The following history represents the evidence I have gathered along the way. I am neither a historian nor an academic. I have a Master’s degree in Writing, and I am first and foremost a storyteller. This is my attempt to promote peace through understanding. I hope you’ll come with me. It promises to be some journey.”
Better if I let explain the author:
“I first became interested in the story of Israel and Palestine in 2002, at the height of the Second Intifada or uprising of the Palestinian people against Israel. Images of stone-throwing youths confronting tanks flashed nightly across my television screen. And I, a 36-year-old writer, resident in Liverpool, with no affinity in either direction, wondered why they were fighting and how it would end. I wanted to get involved somehow, but I understood that a little knowledge was a dangerous thing, and I did not know enough about it to take sides. Instead, I resolved to go back to the beginning of time, to find out who was there first and document EVERYTHING that had happened since. Only then might it be possible to decide where right lay in this complicated issue. The following history represents the evidence I have gathered along the way. I am neither a historian nor an academic. I have a Master’s degree in Writing, and I am first and foremost a storyteller. This is my attempt to promote peace through understanding. I hope you’ll come with me. It promises to be some journey.”
September 24, 2021
Israel and Palestine: The complete history by Ian Carroll is the perfect read if you are looking to understand and appreciate the complexity of the conflict in an increasingly binary world. This is the most neutral take on this subject that I have come across.
The book covers the historic significance of the fertile Crescent with the depth required to understand the complexities through religious, political and social demographic lenses. It tries to emphasize on how and why each side has come to regard this promised land and how the world view has impacted and changed multiple times due to prevailing world order and political issues not connected to the conflict at all.
Beginning with the origins of monotheistic believers of Egypt leading to their exodus to what they considered their promised land to the simultaneous arrival of mysterious sea people conquering the region and prevailing over the unknown early natives of the region, the author tries to uncover how both the sides and their descendants till today have their claims far deep rooted than anyone outside can ever understand or appreciate.
From the early Egyptian and Persian empires through emergence of Christianity and Islam to Romans, Ottomans and more recently the European colonists, bipolar superpowers of the cold war era and now the United States, the author establishes how the different spheres of influence have shaped and dealt with the problems of the promised land and its claimants differently at each turn.
The promised land has always been at the cusp of the most significant religious and political events of the world which has colored not only this region but the entire world. And as the struggle rages on threatening peace after thousands of years, the least we can do as bystanders in a connected world is to be informed through such books and break the propaganda bubles which threaten to deteriorate the situation further. Must read !!!!
The book covers the historic significance of the fertile Crescent with the depth required to understand the complexities through religious, political and social demographic lenses. It tries to emphasize on how and why each side has come to regard this promised land and how the world view has impacted and changed multiple times due to prevailing world order and political issues not connected to the conflict at all.
Beginning with the origins of monotheistic believers of Egypt leading to their exodus to what they considered their promised land to the simultaneous arrival of mysterious sea people conquering the region and prevailing over the unknown early natives of the region, the author tries to uncover how both the sides and their descendants till today have their claims far deep rooted than anyone outside can ever understand or appreciate.
From the early Egyptian and Persian empires through emergence of Christianity and Islam to Romans, Ottomans and more recently the European colonists, bipolar superpowers of the cold war era and now the United States, the author establishes how the different spheres of influence have shaped and dealt with the problems of the promised land and its claimants differently at each turn.
The promised land has always been at the cusp of the most significant religious and political events of the world which has colored not only this region but the entire world. And as the struggle rages on threatening peace after thousands of years, the least we can do as bystanders in a connected world is to be informed through such books and break the propaganda bubles which threaten to deteriorate the situation further. Must read !!!!
January 21, 2024
Ian Carroll's 'Israel and Palestine: The Complete History [2019 edition]' offers a concise and informative overview of the long-standing conflict between Israel and Palestine. Tracing the roots of the conflict back to around 4,000 BC, Carroll distills complex historical events into a digestible format for readers. This approach makes the book an excellent resource for those seeking a foundational understanding of the issues that have fueled tensions for millennia.
While the book is commendable for its brevity and factual accuracy, it does have a somewhat dry tone. Despite this, Carroll's commitment to providing a fair and balanced account is evident throughout, as he navigates the intricacies of the conflict with an objective lens. This neutrality is particularly crucial given the sensitive nature of the topic, and Carroll handles it with care.
One limitation of the book, however, is its lack of an index and a list of key figures and organizations. The inclusion of these elements would greatly enhance its utility as a reference tool. Such additions would make it easier for readers to refresh their memories or refer back in the future to particular sections.
Despite this shortcoming, 'Israel and Palestine: The Complete History' is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to gain a comprehensive overview of the conflict. Its concise nature makes it approachable, and I found it to be a helpful guide in understanding the overarching themes and developments of this enduring struggle. The book serves not only as an introductory text but also as a reference I anticipate returning to, as the conflict, unfortunately, shows no signs of resolution in the near future.
While the book is commendable for its brevity and factual accuracy, it does have a somewhat dry tone. Despite this, Carroll's commitment to providing a fair and balanced account is evident throughout, as he navigates the intricacies of the conflict with an objective lens. This neutrality is particularly crucial given the sensitive nature of the topic, and Carroll handles it with care.
One limitation of the book, however, is its lack of an index and a list of key figures and organizations. The inclusion of these elements would greatly enhance its utility as a reference tool. Such additions would make it easier for readers to refresh their memories or refer back in the future to particular sections.
Despite this shortcoming, 'Israel and Palestine: The Complete History' is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to gain a comprehensive overview of the conflict. Its concise nature makes it approachable, and I found it to be a helpful guide in understanding the overarching themes and developments of this enduring struggle. The book serves not only as an introductory text but also as a reference I anticipate returning to, as the conflict, unfortunately, shows no signs of resolution in the near future.
March 27, 2024
"Israel and Palestine: The Complete History [2019 Edition]" is an exhaustive and insightful chronicle that delves deep into the heart of one of the most enduring and contentious conflicts in modern history. This book serves not only as a historical record but also as a reflective mirror on the complexities and tragedies that have defined the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It provides a comprehensive overview of the geopolitical, social, and cultural dimensions that have shaped the region, offering readers an unvarnished look at the events and policies that have led to the current state of affairs.
The book is commendable for its rigorous examination of the historical context, beginning from the late 19th century through to the present day, detailing the rise of Zionism, the British mandate period, the creation of the state of Israel, and the subsequent wars and uprisings that have punctuated the struggle over this land. What sets this edition apart is its commitment to presenting a balanced account, acknowledging the narratives and grievances of both Israelis and Palestinians.
However, it is in its unflinching portrayal of the plight of the Palestinians where the book's narrative resonates most profoundly. The author lays bare the systemic injustices and hardships faced by the Palestinian people, from displacement and dispossession to the daily indignities of living under occupation. This detailed account serves as a sobering reminder of the human cost of the conflict, challenging the reader to confront the realities of settler colonialism and apartheid that have been leveled against Israel by critics.
The comparison to the plight of American Indians underlines a broader theme of settler colonialism, drawing parallels between two peoples who have suffered from displacement, cultural erasure, and the violation of their rights. This analogy is powerful and thought-provoking, urging readers to consider the wider implications of historical and ongoing injustices against indigenous and marginalized groups worldwide.
While "Israel and Palestine: The Complete History [2019 Edition]" is undoubtedly a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the intricacies of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, it is not a light read. The book's detailed accounts of suffering, violence, and injustice can be emotionally taxing, serving as a poignant reminder of the human capacity for both cruelty and resilience. It challenges the narratives often propagated by mainstream media, offering a more nuanced and often harrowing perspective on the victims of the conflict.
In conclusion, this book is an essential read for anyone looking to grasp the full scope of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It is a testament to the importance of historical context in understanding contemporary issues, and it provides a critical examination of the narratives that shape our perception of justice and morality in international affairs. While it may be a depressing journey through the annals of conflict, it is also an imperative one for fostering a more informed and empathetic understanding of a deeply complex and human story.
The book is commendable for its rigorous examination of the historical context, beginning from the late 19th century through to the present day, detailing the rise of Zionism, the British mandate period, the creation of the state of Israel, and the subsequent wars and uprisings that have punctuated the struggle over this land. What sets this edition apart is its commitment to presenting a balanced account, acknowledging the narratives and grievances of both Israelis and Palestinians.
However, it is in its unflinching portrayal of the plight of the Palestinians where the book's narrative resonates most profoundly. The author lays bare the systemic injustices and hardships faced by the Palestinian people, from displacement and dispossession to the daily indignities of living under occupation. This detailed account serves as a sobering reminder of the human cost of the conflict, challenging the reader to confront the realities of settler colonialism and apartheid that have been leveled against Israel by critics.
The comparison to the plight of American Indians underlines a broader theme of settler colonialism, drawing parallels between two peoples who have suffered from displacement, cultural erasure, and the violation of their rights. This analogy is powerful and thought-provoking, urging readers to consider the wider implications of historical and ongoing injustices against indigenous and marginalized groups worldwide.
While "Israel and Palestine: The Complete History [2019 Edition]" is undoubtedly a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the intricacies of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, it is not a light read. The book's detailed accounts of suffering, violence, and injustice can be emotionally taxing, serving as a poignant reminder of the human capacity for both cruelty and resilience. It challenges the narratives often propagated by mainstream media, offering a more nuanced and often harrowing perspective on the victims of the conflict.
In conclusion, this book is an essential read for anyone looking to grasp the full scope of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It is a testament to the importance of historical context in understanding contemporary issues, and it provides a critical examination of the narratives that shape our perception of justice and morality in international affairs. While it may be a depressing journey through the annals of conflict, it is also an imperative one for fostering a more informed and empathetic understanding of a deeply complex and human story.
December 14, 2023
Right at the beginning of the book, the author states that he is not a historian or academic. He has a Master’s Degree in Writing, comes from Liverpool in the UK, and has no affinity in either direction, towards Israelis or Palestinians. He wanted to research the subject of the Israeli- Palestinian conflict, to better understand how it arose from ancient times onwards, and to understand why the conflict continues to this day.
That sums up my own interest in the subject – to understand the ‘why’ of the conflict. Like the author, I have no affinity to either side.
The author has done a massive amount of historical research and yet he presents the results clearly, easily grasped by a lay person such as myself. His stated aim to be ‘clear, concise and truthful’ has certainly been achieved. The book is easy to read and easy to understand despite the complexities of describing over two thousand years of history in such a way that it doesn’t get bogged down by straying too far from the main theme. He doesn’t shy away from looking at various atrocities that occurred – and there are plenty of them, even in recent decades, to the shame of both sides. Finding any peaceful way forward will take yet more years, I fear.
I would recommend this book as a good starting point for people who want to shed light on the conflict from a historical point of view right up to the present day, and to comprehend the factors that prevent a peaceful solution. It may be rare to write an unbiased account of a sensitive subject, but the author has achieved that, to his credit. I came away with more knowledge and a certain amount of despair at the aggressive nature of both sides.
That sums up my own interest in the subject – to understand the ‘why’ of the conflict. Like the author, I have no affinity to either side.
The author has done a massive amount of historical research and yet he presents the results clearly, easily grasped by a lay person such as myself. His stated aim to be ‘clear, concise and truthful’ has certainly been achieved. The book is easy to read and easy to understand despite the complexities of describing over two thousand years of history in such a way that it doesn’t get bogged down by straying too far from the main theme. He doesn’t shy away from looking at various atrocities that occurred – and there are plenty of them, even in recent decades, to the shame of both sides. Finding any peaceful way forward will take yet more years, I fear.
I would recommend this book as a good starting point for people who want to shed light on the conflict from a historical point of view right up to the present day, and to comprehend the factors that prevent a peaceful solution. It may be rare to write an unbiased account of a sensitive subject, but the author has achieved that, to his credit. I came away with more knowledge and a certain amount of despair at the aggressive nature of both sides.
January 12, 2024
it is in some ways fine as a general overview of events but I found many factual errors (it is unreferenced) and also a lot of bias from the author. He says for example that the Jews adopted Pharaoh Akhenaten's religion and took it back to Israel after the exodus. he also let his bias slip in more and more in the final chapters and by the end he refers to Hamas, Islamic Jihad etc as "resistance fighters" rather than terrorists as he does in the earlier chapters.
also quite poorly written in terms of lack of fluidity and very short paragraphs (usually averaging about 3-5 lines in each).
I'd look elsewhere
also quite poorly written in terms of lack of fluidity and very short paragraphs (usually averaging about 3-5 lines in each).
I'd look elsewhere
October 10, 2024
If you need the facts read the History
This is a revelation of a read. It explains the background of the Israeli and Palestinian wars of occupation, settlement, intifada and the devastating cycle of war, generation after generation as the cycle of hopelessness for young people leading them to rise up against their occupiers.
It's a difficult read in places but leads to a conclusion that without talking this cycle will just continue its destructive path first started in 1207 BC !
A brilliant read if you need to get real context around where we are right now in the Middle East Crisis.
This is a revelation of a read. It explains the background of the Israeli and Palestinian wars of occupation, settlement, intifada and the devastating cycle of war, generation after generation as the cycle of hopelessness for young people leading them to rise up against their occupiers.
It's a difficult read in places but leads to a conclusion that without talking this cycle will just continue its destructive path first started in 1207 BC !
A brilliant read if you need to get real context around where we are right now in the Middle East Crisis.
November 21, 2023
I was looking for a good, clear overview of what’s happening in Israel/Palestine and wow!! I picked a good one. The author is a story teller, not a historian, but I think that’s what helped me stay focused and engaged in listening. I have gained a much better understanding of the conflict. Although I feel I’ve lost hope that it will ever get resolved without some help from God himself. I highly recommend this if you want to know where it all started and how it’s gotten to where it is today. Great narration, and it felt very unbiased.
December 31, 2021
Good overview of a complicated topic. The lack of sources/references are an issue.
November 19, 2023
Less and less unbiased in tone, language, and approach as it proceeded.
January 17, 2025
Ian Carroll's history of the Holy Land is a readable, concise, balanced piece that provides a helpful summary of the conflict over a strip of land described by some as the 'navel of civilisation.'
The author's easy-going style highlights the history of the religious and political struggles in 228 pages and identifies reoccurring themes. I found many of the patterns repeated in the current Gaza War. The ancient hatred between Jews and Arabs continues in a destructive dance; violent Palestinian resistance to the unjust 'colonisation of their land' provokes Israel's military response, often regarded by critics as excessive. Variations between the Israeli and Palestinian narratives are prolific. The failed efforts to broker peace by intermediaries and the assassination of leaders by extremists of their own race are part of the pattern.
The refusal of Israel to allow foreign press into areas of military operation, with the explanation it was 'unsafe for media', and allegations of targeted deaths of Palestinian media are repeated in the current Gaza conflict. The attack by Israel on a US spy ship off the coast of Sinai in International waters on day four of the Six Day War, killing 34 men and wounding 174, is a case in point. The ship was clearly identified by the US flag. Israel claimed it was a 'mistake'. The US disagreed and the case of the USS Liberty remains classified to this day.
My main criticism is the lack of detail of Carroll's sources. There is no way to check accuracy. I noted several errors in dates and the statement that the religious leaders planned the death of Jesus because he welcomed Gentiles into God's family is not consistent with my reading of the New Testament. However, Carroll's work is a worthy addition to the bookshelf of interested followers of the conflict.
The author's easy-going style highlights the history of the religious and political struggles in 228 pages and identifies reoccurring themes. I found many of the patterns repeated in the current Gaza War. The ancient hatred between Jews and Arabs continues in a destructive dance; violent Palestinian resistance to the unjust 'colonisation of their land' provokes Israel's military response, often regarded by critics as excessive. Variations between the Israeli and Palestinian narratives are prolific. The failed efforts to broker peace by intermediaries and the assassination of leaders by extremists of their own race are part of the pattern.
The refusal of Israel to allow foreign press into areas of military operation, with the explanation it was 'unsafe for media', and allegations of targeted deaths of Palestinian media are repeated in the current Gaza conflict. The attack by Israel on a US spy ship off the coast of Sinai in International waters on day four of the Six Day War, killing 34 men and wounding 174, is a case in point. The ship was clearly identified by the US flag. Israel claimed it was a 'mistake'. The US disagreed and the case of the USS Liberty remains classified to this day.
My main criticism is the lack of detail of Carroll's sources. There is no way to check accuracy. I noted several errors in dates and the statement that the religious leaders planned the death of Jesus because he welcomed Gentiles into God's family is not consistent with my reading of the New Testament. However, Carroll's work is a worthy addition to the bookshelf of interested followers of the conflict.
May 23, 2023
This was a decent summary of the Israel and Palestine conflict. It mostly just focused on the broader conflicts and tried to be as non-biased as possible. With that being said, there was a lot left out, and the writing style was very dry. It took me a while to read and could be made more accessible.
October 25, 2023
Must-Read
A non-religious (although drawn upon for historical reference), sometimes tongue-in-cheek, unbiased history of events dating back millennia to summarize and put into perspective the struggle and strife between 2 nations. Easy read with some advanced vocabulary as it is written by a history professor. Highly recommend!!
A non-religious (although drawn upon for historical reference), sometimes tongue-in-cheek, unbiased history of events dating back millennia to summarize and put into perspective the struggle and strife between 2 nations. Easy read with some advanced vocabulary as it is written by a history professor. Highly recommend!!
November 5, 2023
Any war needs to come to an end either by surrendering or coming to agreements. I see no surrendering from either side. So if agreements are made, then each side must not override them. As in the past when agreements are ignored, then violence escalates. Until then, the future looks bleak for the entire world. Making the issue a total biblical one doesn't help at all.
November 22, 2023
A Concise look at the Israeli and Palestinian delimema.
This book looks at the relationship between Israel and the Palestinians through history up to the present day. It shows how difficult it has proven for Jews and Palestinian people's to live in peace. It also demonstrates how the bloodletting has become more horrific as time passes.
This book looks at the relationship between Israel and the Palestinians through history up to the present day. It shows how difficult it has proven for Jews and Palestinian people's to live in peace. It also demonstrates how the bloodletting has become more horrific as time passes.
January 22, 2024
This is an important topic, and the book approaches the topic from an interesting perspective, but that’s where the positive ends. The lack of any references/sources at all is extremely concerning, and the writing style is confusing, jumbled, and not engaging at all. I recommend seeking this information elsewhere.
June 6, 2021
I thought this to be a complete , straightforward and objective Israeli/Palestinian history. A fast and easy read with very little editorializing. This is exactly the coverage I was looking for. .
December 13, 2023
This is a very interesting history. I must read more about the issues, but my first take is that fairy tales are dangerous. If "god" promises you anything, the first step is to admit you have a problem.
December 30, 2024
Easy read. At times, the book went into too much detail regarding individual deaths and suffering. My goal was to learn about the history and reasoning behind the problems and not so much the individuals.
June 29, 2025
Exceptionally well written history of Israel & Palestine. The book covers historically important events in the struggle between Jews & Arabs, & gives an idea about why things are as they are in the middle East.
July 16, 2020
Comprehensive overview of the entire history. Simple and concise. The writing is often too basic and watered down. But at least it's a quick read.
June 6, 2021
Abit too summarized.
October 26, 2022
A balanced understanding
November 21, 2023
amazing history
I loved it, from start to finish. I am now well informed.Thank you very much for writing the truth. God Bless
I loved it, from start to finish. I am now well informed.Thank you very much for writing the truth. God Bless
December 3, 2023
Thorough
Good read albeit the author was biased towards the
Palestinians. This conflict has been going on for 4,000 years. You would think its time for resolution has arrived!
Good read albeit the author was biased towards the
Palestinians. This conflict has been going on for 4,000 years. You would think its time for resolution has arrived!
December 1, 2024
An easy to read summary of events following the Hebrew people during their time in modern-day Palestine. A very subjective perspective by a layman author with no referenced research.
Heavy focus on the biblical journey of the Hebrews prior to 0AD, then skims forward over the Crusades to focus in on the relevant events from WWI to the 2010s. Contains many of names and dates, but there is inconsistency in facts and repetition of content from chapter to chapter. Very little content on the other residents of Palestine, and little insight on affairs in countries outside of England and Palestine.
An okay quick-start guide to the affairs of ancient and modern states of Israel in Palestine, and the involvement of England in the modern Palestine situation. Not well-written enough to justify the lack of information on Palestine between 0AD-1800AD.
Heavy focus on the biblical journey of the Hebrews prior to 0AD, then skims forward over the Crusades to focus in on the relevant events from WWI to the 2010s. Contains many of names and dates, but there is inconsistency in facts and repetition of content from chapter to chapter. Very little content on the other residents of Palestine, and little insight on affairs in countries outside of England and Palestine.
An okay quick-start guide to the affairs of ancient and modern states of Israel in Palestine, and the involvement of England in the modern Palestine situation. Not well-written enough to justify the lack of information on Palestine between 0AD-1800AD.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews