Saddam: The Secret Life

Con Coughlin

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Drawing on an unparalleled network of sources, contacts, and first hand testimonies, Con Coughlin takes us to the centre of Saddam's complex and bewildering regime. In 1979 Saddam took power and immediately set about controlling every aspect of Iraqi life. The Kurds and Shiites have been subjected to horrendous genocidal attacks, thousands of political prisoners taken, many tortured for Hussein's own gratification.

Even his own two sons-in-law were murdered on Saddam's direct orders. More than this, Coughlin takes us behind the palace gates to view Saddam and the contradictions of his private life. His sponsoring of Islamic fundamentalism is at odds with his whisky drinking and womanising; his reliance on and celebration of family negated by his violent and temperamental treatment of them.

With evidence from both family members, servants and staff, Saddam: The Secret Life is unique in its representation of his illusive and secretive world. Insightful, penetrating and shocking, Con Coughlin has written the defining biography of one of the most dangerous men in the world. 'Excellent and disturbing... the case for getting rid of this terrifying madman as soon as possible is overwhelming' William Shawcross, Sunday Telegraph

What will you learn from this book

  1. Rise to Power: The book delves into Saddam Hussein's early life and his ascent to power within the Ba'ath Party, culminating in his assumption of the presidency of Iraq in 1979.

  2. Authoritarian Rule: Saddam's dictatorial regime is characterized by brutality, repression, and the systematic elimination of political opponents, dissenters, and perceived threats to his authority.

  3. Foreign Policy: Saddam's aggressive foreign policy, including the invasion of Iran in 1980 and Kuwait in 1990, as well as his pursuit of weapons of mass destruction, is examined in detail.

  4. Regional Influence: The book explores Saddam's ambitions for regional dominance and his efforts to position Iraq as a leading power in the Middle East, often at the expense of neighboring countries.

  5. Human Rights Abuses: Saddam's regime is notorious for its human rights abuses, including widespread torture, executions, and the use of chemical weapons against civilian populations.

  6. Personality Cult: Saddam cultivated a cult of personality around himself, portraying himself as a heroic leader and savior of the Iraqi people while suppressing dissent and opposition.

  7. Family Dynamics: The book delves into Saddam's family life, including his relationships with his wives, children, and close relatives, revealing the personal dynamics behind the scenes of his regime.

  8. International Relations: Saddam's confrontational stance towards the West, particularly the United States, and his involvement in regional conflicts made him a key figure on the global stage.

  9. Downfall and Capture: The book chronicles Saddam's eventual downfall, including the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq in 2003 and his subsequent capture by coalition forces, which marked the end of his regime.

  10. Legacy: Saddam Hussein's legacy continues to reverberate in Iraq and the wider Middle East, shaping regional politics and contributing to ongoing instability and conflict in the region.

Language English
ISBN-10 0330393103
ISBN-13 9780330393102
No of pages 350
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Pan Book
Published Date 21 Mar 2003

About Author

Author : Con Coughlin

3 Books

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