This book offers a comprehensive and critical examination of Libya's modern history, political evolution, and societal dynamics. Dr. Sawani analyses the Sanusi monarchy, Gaddafi rule, and the period following the uprising that ended Gaddafi’s rule and led to a tumultuous post-2011 transition. The book seeks to explain the interplay of all these elements and the interaction between the internal and the external. Pivotal developments and moments along Libya’s contemporary path are examined including the state-building challenges under King Idris I, the foundations and idiosyncratic nature of the Gaddafi regime, the unrealized reform attempts of the 2000s, the causes and consequences of the 2011 uprising, the controversial NATO-led intervention, and the subsequent descent into crisis and political fragmentation.

Youssef Mohammad Sawani is a Professor of Politics and International Relations at the University of Tripoli. Dr. Sawani is a specialist in Libyan politics, economy, security, foreign policy and contemporary history.