1978 Thirteen Days in September

A new book is out on the historic peace agreement between Israel and Egypt, forged by President Carter. I am still in the opening chapters, but it is safe to say that this will be recognized as a classic work. It is written for the general audience, and the author freely delves into the rich personalities of the main actors, making for an absorbing narrative. So, here is a great chance to take a good bite into some otherwise complex Middle East history.

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Three men, representing three religions, met for thirteen days at the presidential retreat of Camp David in the autumn of 1978 in order to solve a dispute that religion itself had largely caused. Beliefs built on ancient texts and legends conspired to create one of the most obdurate conflicts of modern times, one that has drowned the Middle East in a timeless blood feud, brought the superpowers of the time to the brink of nuclear war, flooded the region with refugees, and spawned terrorist movements that have created mayhem and heartbreak all over the world.

-- Lawrence Wright, “Thirteen Days in September”

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Of course, it was only a partial peace, but it has been essential in limiting the instability of the region, and it is perhaps one of the few victories for peace that we have seen in the recent history of the region.

Pop

Pop really does seem to be suffering a ‘smell’ problem. He sprays the house more often, even when there are no guests coming. He once asked me if it smelled to me like something was burning, and we were in his office rather than the kitchen or outside. I suspect it is him: that old person smell.

Dealing with ISIS

Mr. Douthat gives us a good opportunity to catch up on our affairs in Iraq and Syria, striking that almost perfect note of disillusionment and near hopelessness. We keep feeding our enemies and dig ourselves deeper into the quagmire that is the Middle East.

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Celebrities and Stuff

"Paul Buchanan - Mid Air" (Watch on YouTube)

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