Includes bibliographical references (pages 305-315).
In a narrative that is at once thoughtful and passionate, hopeful but without illusions, award-winning historian Zachary Karabell reveals the history of peaceful coexistence among Muslims, Christians, and Jews over the course of fourteen centuries until the present-day. The harsh reality of religious conflict is daily news, and the rising tensions between the West and Islam show no signs of abating. However, the relationship between Muslims, Christians, and Jews has not always been marked with animosity; there is also a deep and nuanced history of peace. From the court of caliphs in ancient Baghdad, where scholars engaged in spirited debate, to present-day Dubai, where members of each faith work side by side, Karabell traces the forgotten legacy of tolerance and cooperation these three monotheistic religions have enjoyed'a legacy that will be vital in any attempt to find common ground and reestablish peace. From the Trade Paperback edition.