This historical overview is a well informed and readable account of an area of the world which has been and is now more than ever a significant geographical location in the Middle East--both culturally and commercially. Topics covered include the bedouin trouble in the area, their origins and organization, ancient and medieval trade, early travelers, accounts of the important Alter of Damascus, Aleppo, Baghdad, Al Wasera, the caravan, state, private, the hajj, and much more.