Evaluate British administration in Iraq and Transjordan.

Candidates will make an appraisal of the British administration in Iraq and Transjordan, weighing up its strengths and limitations or otherwise. Consequences/results may extend beyond the timeframe, but must be clearly linked to the issue raised in the question. Candidates may refer to British policies that were successful in moving Iraq towards independence, achieved in 1932, resolved boundary disputes and provided Iraq with revenues from its oil fields. Britain did not implement a democratic state and continued to maintain military bases and oil rights, which led to unrest and demonstrations from Iraqi nationalists. Transjordan was given increased autonomy after the First World War and became almost entirely independent by 1939 and fully so in 1946. Britain provided financial support and training for the armed forces throughout the period, even after independence and Emir Abdullah’s installation as king. The British support of Abdullah was instrumental in uniting the country. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.