The Sykes-Picot Agreement was the result of secret deliberations between British civil servant Mark Sykes and French diplomat François Georges-Picot. Wikimedia Commons

The Sykes‑Picot Agreement and the making of the modern Middle East

The Sykes-Picot Agreement created the modern Middle East. It represents one of the first installments in a long line of modern European – and subsequent American – meddling in the region.
Islam is a rich and varied religion. EPA/Sanjeev Gupta

Why is Islam so different in different countries?

Since Islam is predicated on law, variations in the interpretation of that law – along with geography and distinct legal schools – have all contributed to differences in the religion.
Islamic State fighters on a tank take part in a military parade along the streets of northern Raqqa province. Reuters/Stringer

If Islamic State is based on religion, why is it so violent?

Despite what we’re told, religion isn’t inherently peaceful. People kill in the name of their religion, just as they love in its name.

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