Politicizing Islam in Central Asia: From the Russian Revolution to the Afghan and Syrian Jihads

Are you curious about the history of Islamism in Central Asia? Look no further than "Politicizing Islam in Central Asia: From the Russian Revolution to the Afghan and Syrian Jihads." This comprehensive book takes you on a journey through time, utilizing Soviet-era archival documents, oral histories, interviews, and focus groups to shed light on the rise of Islamism in the region.

Contrary to popular belief, the surge of Islamism in Central Asia after years of communist atheism was unexpected. Kathleen Collins, the author, explores the reasons behind this phenomenon, emphasizing that not all Muslims automatically support Islamism. She delves into the causes, dynamics, and variations of Islamist movements, both during the Soviet era and in the post-Soviet states of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan.

With extensive ethnographic and historical research, Collins explains the strategies and level of success of each Central Asian Islamist movement. She argues that the repression of Islam by Soviet and post-Soviet regimes, coupled with the spread of religious ideologies, played a pivotal role in motivating Islamist mobilization. You will gain a deep understanding of the dynamics that drove these movements, from the Tajik civil war to the Afghan and Syrian jihads.

If you're fascinated by political history, religious ideologies, or simply want to expand your knowledge about Central Asia, "Politicizing Islam in Central Asia" is a must-read. Click here to get your copy today and embark on an enlightening journey through the complex world of Central Asian Islamist movements.