War, Coups, and Terror

Pakistan's Army in Years of Turmoil

By: Brian Cloughley

Narrated by: Fleet Cooper

In recent years, Pakistan has changed from being a state of regional strategic significance to one of major global importance. Its geographical position and delicate religious mix, coupled with a complex political structure and its status as a nuclear power, have ensured that its actions - and inactions - have attracted close scrutiny since 9/11 and the declaration of the "War on Terror". Yet there remains widespread disagreement among political and military analysts as to the real position of this enigmatic nation.

In War, Coups, and Terror, Brian Cloughley explores the underbelly of Pakistan's military and its controversial role within the Pakistani government since Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto came to power in 1971. An insider with links to Pakistan's past and present senior officers, Cloughley provides a unique insight into the Army's influence and position as a force in the fight against al-Qaeda and the Taliban, as well as an account of operations against the 2003-2004 tribal uprising. His coverage of military-political relations will fascinate those who seek a closer understanding of this enigmatic and complex country, its ambitions, affiliations, and loyalties.

©2008 Brian Cloughley (P)2012 Audible, Inc.

culture and knowledge

if you're from the west looking for another prospective held by both the military and civilian populations in Pakistan, this book is invaluable. The author is honest about his short comings that only adds to the presentation. This should be required reading for all US staff and command officers.

Overall pretty good.

Well researched, understanding, opinionated, naively idealistic, that's this book. This was written by an army officer, which explains his distaste for politicians and praise of military professionalism. He also shows an obvious preoccupation with western ideals, as can be show by frequent references to women's rights in a book about marshal law and cutthroat politics. Also he feels the need to explain the immorality of religious extremism and theocracy to an English speaking audience for some reason. He is very critical of US and allied foreign policy in this region, criticisms which he presents as fact in this book. Also, having personally worked with many of his sources, he shows an obvious bias in favor of his own friends with no thought as to possible ulterior motives. And his love/hate relationship with Pakistan's military is obvious.

That said; the author is the most qualified person to record Pakistan's recent history, having spoken to and worked with the men that participated in these events. I got this book as a source for a paper I'm writing for college, and this fills exactly what I need. I'll say this book is good for people who have little knowlege of Pakistan's contorted history as well as researchers who want a first hand account.