The course examines the role and influence of political leaders in the region. Using a theoretical framework, studies the charismatic, sultanic, traditional and rational-legal forms of leadership in the Middle East by merging biographical material on the region's predominant leaders (Arafat, Saddam Hussein, Ibn Saud, Khomeini, Ataturk, Hafez Assad, Ben-Gurion, King Hussein) with their influence on their respective countries and political foundations. (Cross listed Middle East Studies/International Development)