Lexington Books The Islamic State: A Comparative History of Jihadist Warfare

Product Description This book analyses the Islamic State (IS) within a comparative framework of past Sunni jihadist movements. It argues jihadist failure to overthrow Muslim apostate states has led to a progressive radicalization of violent Islamist terror networks. This outcome has contributed over time to more brutal jihadist doctrines and tactics contributing to a total war doctrine strategy targeting Muslim apostate states (the near enemy), non-Muslim civilizations ( the far enemy) and sectarian minorities (heterodox Muslims and Christians). These extremist tendencies have been building for over a generation and have reached their culmination in the rise and fall of the Islamic State's caliphate. Given past tendencies the emergence of yet even more radical Sunni jihadist movement is probable. Review Anthony N. Celso's new book, The Islamic State: A Comparative History of Jihadist Warfare is a masterpiece of meticulously documented detail, unique in its scope, clarity, and compelling analysis. This is a must read for anyone teaching a course on ISIS or is simply a fan of history, who wants to understand what lies behind the daily headlines.--Michael W.S. Ryan, Jamestown Foundation About the Author Anthony N. Celso is professor of security studies at Angelo State University.