Middle East & North African History Courses

Discover the Rich Histories of the Middle East and North Africa

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is a treasure trove of history and culture. The Mashriq (eastern Mediterranean, Arabian Peninsula, Egypt, and Sudan) and the Maghreb (western and central North Africa) together form a region of immense global significance.

A Cradle of Civilization

This region is where agriculture first blossomed, spreading to Europe and beyond. The MENA region also pioneered writing, organized religion, coinage, long-distance trade, and various forms of political organization. These innovations continue to shape our world today.

A Rich Historical Tapestry

Dive into the fascinating past of the Sumerians, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Persians, Seljuks, and Ottomans. Discover the region’s maritime trading and religious connections with the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic. Learn about the region’s dynamic history, including its resistance to various imperial expansions and its vibrant cultural exchanges.

Modern Significance

Understand the region’s pivotal role in the global energy mix over the past century. Explore the social histories of communities living through the World Wars, their integration into the global market economy, and the dynamics of transnational migration.

Join our courses to engage with the rich histories of the Middle East and North Africa. We offer both short and long courses, available online and face-to-face. Embark on a journey of discovery and deepen your understanding of this vibrant region.

5 Items

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  1. Discover the Assyrians
    Course start date:  Wed 26 Mar 2025

    Location on this date:  Keeley Street

    Tutors:  Michael Bloomfield
    The Neo-Assyrian Empire was one of the most powerful and influential empires of the ancient world. Join us to learn more aboutits history from the early 10th to the close of the 7th century BCE.
    Full fee £79.00 Senior fee £63.00 Concession £51.00
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  2. The Ottoman Empire in world history
    Course start date:  Fri 12 Sep 2025

    Location on this date:  Keeley Street

    Tutors:  Martin Jorgensen
    Want to know more about the history of the Ottoman Empire and its legacies in the modern Middle East? Join us on this course to get an introduction.
    Full fee £139.00 Senior fee £111.00 Concession £90.00
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  3. Cradles of Civilisation: The Sumerians
    Course start date:  Mon 29 Sep 2025

    Location on this date:  Online

    Tutors:  Hugo Cook
    Heard about the Sumerians and want to know more? In this course we will explore the first great civilisation of Mesopotamia, and of the world as a whole.



    This course will be delivered online. See the ‘What is the course about?’ section in course details for more information.
    Full fee £119.00 Senior fee £95.00 Concession £77.00
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  4. Cradles of Civilisation: The Babylonians (with British Museum Visit)
    Course start date:  Mon 3 Nov 2025

    Location on this date:  Blended (learn both online and in-person)

    Tutors:  Hugo Cook
    Join us to to explore the history of the Babylonians, one of the most famous and influential civilisations of all time.



    This course will be delivered online and in person. See the ‘What is the course about?’ section in course details for more information.
    Full fee £139.00 Senior fee £111.00 Concession £90.00
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  5. Global Encounters: The Later Crusades, 1209-1500
    Course start date:  Tue 4 Nov 2025

    Location on this date:  Online

    Tutors:  Vanessa King
    The loss of Jerusalem saw a shift in Crusading strategy. Going on crusade became a seasonal event, first against the Cathars in France and then with the Knights Hospitaller against pagans in the Baltic.



    This course will be delivered online. See the ‘What is the course about?’ section in course details for more information.
    Full fee £179.00 Senior fee £143.00 Concession £116.00
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