Chapter 1: Gathering Storm: The Seeds of Conflict

The historical context leading up to the Gulf War

The Gulf War, also known as the First Gulf War or the Gulf War of 1990-1991, was a pivotal conflict that occurred against the backdrop of complex historical, political, and economic factors. Its origins can be traced back to a series of events that unfolded in the years preceding the war, reshaping the dynamics of the Middle East and the global geopolitical landscape.

One of the key factors leading up to the Gulf War was the longstanding animosity between Iraq and Iran. The Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988) played a crucial role in shaping the perceptions of leadership in both countries. Saddam Hussein's Iraq viewed itself as the dominant regional power and sought to fill the perceived power vacuum left by the Iranian Revolution of 1979. The war had drained both nations economically and militarily, creating a tense environment in the region.