The US-led war in Iraq from 2003 to 2011 was one of the most controversial wars in recent history. The invasion of Iraq was justified by claims that the regime of Saddam Hussein had links with terrorist groups such as al-Qaeda and possessed weapons of mass destruction that might be used in an attack on another country. Both these claims were later shown to be false.The six-week initial active combat phase of the war was an overwhelming military success for coalition forces. Saddam Hussein was deposed and later executed, and the Ba'ath regime was removed from power. But this quick military victory was followed by a violent insurgency that still resonates today and which claimed the lives of over 4,500 US and coalition troops as well as over 200,000 Iraqis. Iraq was left in chaos, and the very terrorist groups that the coalition troops had been sent there to suppress were able to gain control in some areas.Why did this war happen at all? What was the real outcome of the Iraq War? This is the story of the events that led to war, the war itself, and the long period of bloody chaos that followed.Discover a plethora of topics such as Prelude to War: 9/11 and Weapons of Mass Destruction Operation Iraqi Freedom A Flawed Victory Stuck in the Green Zone A Growing Insurgency US Withdrawal And much more!Explore the Iraq War, the controversial conflict launched with the 2003 invasion of Iraq that reshaped the Middle East. From Operation Iraqi Freedom and the fall of Saddam Hussein to insurgency, sectarian violence, and years of foreign occupation, this concise account examines the causes and consequences of one of the defining wars of the 21st century. Perfect for readers of modern military history and contemporary conflict studies. At Hourly History, we publish history books that are concise, straightforward and take no longer than one hour to read. Receive our new eBooks for free every Friday. Sign up at: www.hourlyhistory.com/free
