Libya in western foreign policies, 1911-2011

Libya has a short, volatile history. Foreignersplayed a significant role in shaping Libya's institutions and policies, and thisbook explores longer term trends in the relations between Libya and the West, placing current developments in their historical context.

Throughout history, the globe's mostpowerful actors have regarded Libya as an outlier state of little significance.

Libya belonged neither here nor there and never fell under the full protectionof any significant global or regional powerhouse.

Libya's weak nationalidentity, its weak institutions and its peripheral position have made itvulnerable to external influences and interventions.

As a result, Libyarepeatedly falls prey to foreign powers wanting to flex their muscles.

As thisbook narrates, this was the case in 1911, in 2011 and several times in between.