The End of an Era: Yasir Arafat

Yasir Arafat's long career as a crucial player in the modern history of the Middle East has finally come to a close. For decades Arafat has been synonymous with the Palestinian struggle, leading his community in war, peace, and the nebulous realm in between. For perspective on how much has changed over the years — and how much has not — Foreign Affairs offers this selection of pieces on Arafat and the Palestinians from its archives.

1975
The Palestinian Quest
by Eric Rouleau

Following Arafat's historic appearance in front of the UN General Assembly, Palestinian nationalism stakes a claim for worldwide legitimacy.

1975
After Rabat: Middle East Risks and American Roles
by Richard H. Ullman

Arafat and the PLO assert their newfound status as a central, powerful force in the Middle East.

1978
Thinking the Unthinkable: A Sovereign Palestinian State
by Walid Khalidi

An argument that the only solution to the Arab-Israeli conflict is the establishment of a Palestinian state.

1983
The Future of the PLO
by Eric Rouleau

Israel expels the PLO from Lebanon, but Arafat and his organization show a remarkable resiliency.

1988
Toward Peace in the Holy Land
by Walid Khalidi

In the early days of the first intifada, Palestinians demand an end to occupation and a two-state solution.

1994
The Urge for Democracy
by William B. Quandt

An optimist sees the signing of the Oslo Accords as opening the way for a democratic Palestinian state.

1994
Arafat's Police State
by Amos Perlmutter

A pessimist sees only a Palestinian future of autocracy, militancy, and rising Islamic fundamentalism.

1998
Peace Now or Hamas Later
by Khalil Shikaki

Corruption and a faltering peace process during the late 1990s allow Hamas militants to gain ground in the Palestinian community.

2001
The New Palestinian Revolt
by Chris Hedges

A report from the frontlines of the al Aqsa intifada.

2002
Palestinians Divided
by Khalil Shikaki

Behind the violence of the second intifada lies a Palestinian young guard angry at both Israel and the corruption of Palestinian Authority.

2003
Being Yasir Arafat: A Portrait of Palestine's President
by Glenn Robinson

A review of two Arafat biographies outlines the history, driving ideology, and political significance of the Palestinian leader's life.

2003
Palestine, Iraq, and American Strategy
by Michael Scott Doran

Is Palestine central to the substance of Middle Eastern politics, or only to its symbolism?

2004
The Future of Palestine
by Khalil Shikaki

As Israel prepares to withdraw unilaterally from Gaza, Palestinian national elections could be the only way to avoid chaos in the Strip.