Good Muslim, Bad Muslim

In this incisive work of political history, Ugandan scholar Mahmood Mamdani investigates the international roots of modern political terrorism. He questions the simplistic division between secular, Western-friendly Muslims and religious extremists, arguing instead that these classifications stem from modern political struggles rather than ancient cultural divides.

Mamdani traces how the Cold War, particularly after the United States rethought its military strategy following the Vietnam War, fostered proxy conflicts across the globe. He details how these conflicts nurtured contemporary militant networks, showing that modern Islamist politics took shape through direct encounters with Western foreign policy.

This scholarly study provides essential historical context for anyone seeking to understand global affairs beyond media slogans. It is particularly valuable for university students, lecturers, researchers in international relations, and general readers interested in world politics and contemporary history.