Bernard Lewis

Bernard Lewis (May 31, 1916 – May 19, 2018) was a British-American historian specializing in the history of Islam and the Middle East, whose prolific scholarship and public commentary made him one of the most influential, though controversial, orientalist scholars of the late 20th century. Born in London, Lewis studied at Oxford University and had a distinguished academic career spanning over seven decades. He authored more than thirty books and hundreds of articles examining Islamic history, Ottoman history, and contemporary Middle Eastern politics with impressive breadth and erudition. His major works include 'The Arabs in History,' 'The Muslim Discovery of Europe,' and 'What Went Wrong? The Clash Between Islam and Modernity,' the last of which became influential in post-9/11 political discourse. Lewis was known for his ability to write for both academic and general audiences, making complex historical material accessible. His emphasis on Islamic intellectual history and cultural achievements helped counter some stereotypes in Western discourse. However, his interpretations of Islamic history and contemporary politics became contentious, particularly regarding his characterizations of Islam's relationship with modernity and his influence on neoconservative foreign policy. Despite controversies, his historical scholarship remains extensively cited and studied in academic institutions worldwide.