Publication

This monograph addresses the critical questions involved in understanding the background of Iraqi national identity and the ways in which it might evolve in the future to either the favor or detriment of the United States. The monograph also provides particular attention to the issue of Iraqi sectarianism and the emerging role of the Shi'ite Muslims, noting the power of an emerging but fractionalized clergy. It concludes with policy recommendations for US military and civilian decisionmakers that help to illuminate the complex subjects of Iraqi nationalism and sectarianism and their relevance to the US presence in Iraq.