Spanish born philosopher Santayana said those who ignorant of history are bound to repeat it. He also said only the dead have seen the end of war.

There was a predominate superpower hell-bent for world hegemony via compliant puppet governments. Military bases and an all powerful navy were spread throughout the world. Control of the Middle East was crucial. This superpower played allies and enemies against each other to further it’s agenda. Promises were repeatedly made and broken. Western powers all wanted a piece of the Middle East action.

The Middle East was made up of numerous tribes and sects, each of which had their own particular needs and goals. Many of these groups were at odds with their neighbors and religious variants.

This superpower was unable to recognize these rivalries let alone deal with them. The overall situation was incredibly complex. The superpower did not let ignorance hinder its efforts. Read the rest of this entry »