This dissertation examines the survival and recasting of the Iraqi state between 1988 and 2003. Through four case studies, it suggests that the chaos following the 2003 invasion and the survival of the state between 1988 and 2003 can be understood through a reconsideration of state power. The dissertation’s case studies are: the Anfal Campaign (1987-88), oil smuggling during the sanctions period (1991-2003), the investigations for Weapons of Mass Destruction (1991-2003) and the first two years of the current insurgency (2003-05).