The war in Iraq has expanded from a struggle between Coalition forces and the remnants of former regime loyalists, to a multi-facted conflict involving numerous Sunni groups, Shi'ite militias, Kurdish nationals, and foreign jihadists. This book provides the latest assessment of the Iraqi conflict and documents its entire evolution, from the history of ethnic tensions to the current U.S. "surge." The author identifies each actor in the arena, analyses their motivations, and presents a detailed record of their actions, tactics, and capabilities. This exhaustive study, based on meticulous research, is the most thorough account of the war to date.Beginning with the consequences of imperial colonialism and touching upon the ethnic tensions throughout Saddam's regime, the author examines and details the confluence of forces and events that have paved the way toward Iraq's current civil conflict. He analyses major turning points, including elections, economic developments, and key incidents of violence that continue to shape the war. Finally, he outlines the lessons learned from this history and what can and cannot be done to stabilise the nation.