Sunday, January 24, 2010

The Other Frontiers of Arab Nationalism




My latest work on Arab nationalism during the interwar period and the version of Arab nationalism produced by modernist Salafis, including Ibadis -Berbers and Arabs:



THE OTHER FRONTIERS OF ARAB NATIONALISM: IBADIS, BERBERS, AND THE ARABIST-SALAFI PRESS IN THE INTERWAR PERIOD
The scholarly community is yet to pay attention to the intellectual heritage of the Ibadi community, especially in the modern period. The contributions of the Ibadi communities to the intellectual and political movements in North Africa are of immense significance. And for those interested in the history of nationalism in North Africa, missing on Ibadis is missing the big picture and some fundamental details. The whole North African web of intellectuals and activists, especially between Algeria and Tunisia, deserves special attention. And particular attention should be given to the activities of Mzabis, in the Mzab and outside of it. This is fascinating place with a fascinating history and a rich intellectual heritage. The role Mzabis played in the modern history of Algeria is very important and yet overlooked.