ILEAD Lecture: From Independence to Arab Spring

The revolutions that started in North Africa in 2010 have both deep roots and uncertain futures. Since the 1950s and 60s, the countries of North Africa have each followed a distinct path, from independence to their particular “Arab Springs.” Understanding the past can only help us, and those who call the region home, plot a better future. Is al-Qaeda establishing a new stronghold in the Sahara? Is the Muslim Brotherhood a threat? Who wants to destroy the treasures of Timbuktu? Th is presentation provides answers to the important questions of what is happening in North Africa today, and considers what might happen next. Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, and Mali: each is the product of its history, cultures and resources, as well as the worldview of individual leaders – from banal to downright bizarre – and each one is dealing with today’s events against these varied backgrounds. With a frank consideration of the facts and figures, what sometimes seems like a confusing picture will be made clear in this lecture.