| Popis: |
The Arab-Israeli War of 1973, also known as the "October War" was the result of, and arguably a continuation of, a long-standing conflict between Arabs and Jews. Prior wars between the Arabs and Jews were fought in 1948, 1956, and more importantly, in 1967. The outcome of the "Six-Day War" of 1967 created an overwhelming feeling of hostility toward Israel by the Arab nations, particularly by the people of Egypt, who felt humiliated and dishonored. Honor is an important part of the Egyptian culture, lying at the core of their self-identity, thereby reflecting and influencing vociferous public opinion and national passion. The influence of Egyptian nationalism was made evident in a 1972 speech when President Sadat told the Egyptians that "a battle of destiny" would be waged against Israel to reclaim the land lost by Egypt to Israel in 1967. This essay will study how Egyptian nationalism affected the elements of statecraft, and how it weighed on the final decision to use military force against Israel. President Sadat possessed a keen awareness of the interplay of the government, the people and the military power-its volatility and synergy. Unfortunately, the world underestimated the salience of Egypt's cultural belief in preservation of honor. This brief analysis of both Egyptian domestic conditions and international relationships preceding the 1973 war exemplifies the significant role culture contributes to and influences statecraft and the relations of nations. |
