Imperial Perceptions of Palestine: British Influence and Power in Late Ottoman Times (1854-1923)

‘A scholarly, original study that offers several new insights and a balanced criticism of British and Zionist perceptions of Palestinian history and society. For anyone with an interest in deconstructing the present of our region this book is a must.’ -- Moshe Ma’oz, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem -- ‘Imperial Perceptions of Palestine is a powerful and truly illuminating study of Palestine’s history under British influence that will challenge common conceptions and understandings of that period. Based on meticulous and extensive archival work, Kamel shows how the dispossession to which Palestinians have long been subject extends to their history in what he terms “biblical orientalism”, denuding not only Palestinian claims but a lived history upon which those claims are based. Hence, the Palestinian struggle at present is not only about liberation but is also an attempt to “get back into history”, reclaiming a past in all its vibrancy, complexity and beauty.’ -- Sara Roy, Harvard University -- ‘This is a truly outstanding academic work. It fills a gap in the literature on modern Palestine and, more generally, on the construction of the modern Middle East. It is based on a wide range of primary sources in six languages. It offers a comprehensive outlook on a wide number of issues such as cultural, social and spatial boundaries, local identities, land tenure, institutions, toponomy and borders.’ -- Ilaria Porciani, Bologna University -- ‘This book offers important critical research about the roots of the conflict over Palestine. The author has made a thorough investigation based on a wide range of resources and documents, opening new avenues for re-reading a crucial period in the history of the Middle East.’ -- Nazmi Jubeh, Birzeit University, Ramallah -