When exploring Jordan history, you’ll find a rich tapestry of events, leaders, and cultural influences that have shaped this remarkable nation. From ancient times to modern-day Jordan, this selection of books provides a comprehensive look at the kingdom’s past, its people, and its influence on the Middle East. Whether you’re curious about the life of King Hussein, the tribes of Jordan, or its iconic archaeological sites, these books are excellent companions for history enthusiasts.
Author: Ali Karam
Ali Karam is a historian and author specializing in Middle Eastern politics and history. With years of research under his belt, Karam brings a nuanced perspective to complex topics surrounding Jordan and its role in the region.
10. The Shaykh of Shaykhs: Mithqal al-Fayiz and Tribal Leadership in Modern Jordan
Author: Yoav Alon
⭐5.0 out of 5 stars (6 ratings)
Category: Jordan History
Tribal leadership has been at the heart of Jordan’s social fabric, and this book captures the essence of that influence. It tells the story of Mithqal al-Fayiz, a leader who played a pivotal role in the kingdom’s political landscape.
Why You’ll Love It:
This biography is deeply insightful about tribal politics, making it essential for anyone interested in the balance between tradition and modern governance in Jordan.
Fun Fact:
Mithqal al-Fayiz was not only influential in Jordan’s internal politics but also fostered relationships with international leaders, helping to shape the modern Middle East.
9. The Phoebe Jordan Story: The First Woman to Legally Vote in a National Election
Author: Richard Lindstrom, PhD
⭐4.7 out of 5 stars (30 ratings)
Category: Jordan History
Phoebe Jordan’s contribution to democracy in the Arab world cannot be understated. This book takes readers through her life and how she became the first woman to legally vote in a national election in Jordan.
Why You’ll Love It:
This inspirational tale not only provides a glimpse into Jordan’s progressive strides but also serves as a testament to women’s empowerment in the region.
Fun Fact:
Phoebe Jordan cast her vote during a significant political shift in the country, marking a major milestone in Jordanian women’s rights.
8. Lion of Jordan: The Life of King Hussein in War and Peace
Author: Avi Shlaim
⭐4.5 out of 5 stars (81 ratings)
Category: Jordan History
This biography of King Hussein offers a riveting exploration of the king’s life, from his early days on the throne to his pivotal role in peace negotiations in the Middle East.
Why You’ll Love It:
The book masterfully captures King Hussein’s legacy as a leader who balanced regional politics with a desire for peace, making it a must-read for anyone interested in Jordan’s history.
Fun Fact:
King Hussein ruled for 46 years, making him one of the longest-reigning monarchs in the region, and was instrumental in the 1994 peace treaty between Jordan and Israel.
7. The Invention of Sodomy in Christian Theology
Author: Mark D. Jordan
⭐3.8 out of 5 stars (14 ratings)
Category: Jordan History
Although this book touches on broader theological themes, it offers important historical context for understanding the region’s interplay between religion and law, particularly within Jordan.
Why You’ll Love It:
It sheds light on complex religious and social issues, providing historical context for some of the moral and legal debates that have shaped Jordan.
Fun Fact:
Jordan has a unique legal system where both Islamic and secular laws coexist, creating fascinating intersections explored in this book.
6. Cursed Victory
Author: Ahron Bregman
⭐3.9 out of 5 stars (23 ratings)
Category: Jordan History
Focusing on the Arab-Israeli conflict, this book discusses Jordan’s role in the struggle for control of Jerusalem and the West Bank following the Six-Day War.
Why You’ll Love It:
“Cursed Victory” is essential reading for understanding Jordan’s involvement in one of the most enduring conflicts in the Middle East, offering a Jordanian perspective often overlooked.
Fun Fact:
King Hussein’s decision to relinquish claims to the West Bank in 1988 was a major turning point in Jordanian-Israeli relations.
5. Revelation Explained: An Interpretation by James B. Jordan: Volume Two: Thunder
Author: James B. Jordan
⭐4.0 out of 5 stars (50 ratings)
Category: Jordan History
This theological work brings a historical lens to the book of Revelation, providing insights into Jordan’s Christian heritage and its ties to early religious texts.
Why You’ll Love It:
This book’s in-depth analysis is ideal for readers interested in how Jordan’s religious history intertwines with its present-day culture.
Fun Fact:
James B. Jordan is known for his expertise in biblical theology, and his works are highly regarded for their historical accuracy.
4. Getica: The Origin and Deeds of the Goths
Author: Jordanes
⭐4.7 out of 5 stars (64 ratings)
Category: Jordan History
Though focused on the Goths, this classic historical text is significant in tracing the movements of various tribes, some of which interacted with early Jordanian societies.
Why You’ll Love It:
The historical breadth of “Getica” allows readers to explore the broader ancient world, including how tribes in the Jordan region interacted with their neighbors.
Fun Fact:
Jordanes wrote “Getica” in the 6th century, making it one of the oldest historical texts that mentions Jordan’s early history.
3. Jordan: Past and Present: Petra, Jerash, Amman
Author: E. Borgia
⭐4.3 out of 5 stars (30 ratings)
Category: Jordan History
A stunning visual journey through Jordan’s most iconic archaeological sites, including Petra, Jerash, and Amman, this book is a must-have for anyone fascinated by Jordan’s historical treasures.
Why You’ll Love It:
With vivid images and expert commentary, this book brings Jordan’s ancient history to life, making it a visual delight and a well-rounded historical guide.
Fun Fact:
Petra, one of the featured sites, was once the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
2. Can We Talk About Israel?: A Guide for the Curious, Confused, and Conflicted
Author: Daniel Sokatch
⭐4.5 out of 5 stars (219 ratings)
Category: Jordan History
Though primarily focused on Israel, this book helps readers understand the Jordanian perspective in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, touching on historical tensions in the region.
Why You’ll Love It:
With its balanced approach, this guide is a perfect entry point for understanding how Jordan’s history is interwoven with the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Fun Fact:
Jordan was the second Arab nation to sign a peace treaty with Israel, a major milestone in the region’s history.
1. A Line in the Sand: A Novel
Author: Miles Spencer
⭐4.8 out of 5 stars (215 ratings)
Category: Jordan History
“A Line in the Sand” blends fiction and history, telling a captivating story set against the backdrop of Jordan’s early 20th-century political landscape.
Why You’ll Love It:
This novel is not only an exciting read but also offers insightful commentary on the historical events that shaped modern-day Jordan.
Fun Fact:
The novel provides a unique perspective on the Sykes-Picot Agreement, which played a major role in the drawing of Jordan’s borders.
