The history of the Muslim Brotherhood from "summary" of The Looming Tower by Lawrence Wright
The Muslim Brotherhood was founded in 1928 by a schoolteacher named Hassan al-Banna in Ismailia, a town on the Suez Canal in Egypt. The organization was established as a reaction to the decline of Islamic civilization and the encroachment of Western influence in the Muslim world. Al-Banna sought to revive the glory of Islam by promoting a return to the fundamentals of the faith and the establishment of a truly Islamic society. The Muslim Brotherhood quickly grew in popularity, attracting a diverse group of followers from different social and economic backgrounds. The organization's message resonated with many Egyptians who were disillusioned with the corruption and ineffectiveness of the ruling elite. Al-Banna's vision of a society guided by Islamic principles struck a chord with those who longed for a return to a more traditional way of life. The Muslim Brotherhood's activities expanded beyond religious and social services to include political activism and opposition to the Egyptian government. Al-Banna and his followers were involved in various forms of protest and resistance, including boycotts, strikes, and demonstrations. The organization's influence continued to grow, despite facing repression and persecution from the authorities. After al-Banna's assassination in 1949, the leadership of the Muslim Brotherhood passed to a new generation of leaders who were more radical and militant in their approach. The organization became increasingly involved in violent acts of terrorism in pursuit of its goals. The Muslim Brotherhood's tactics alienated many Egyptians and led to a crackdown by the government, resulting in the imprisonment and execution of its members. Despite these setbacks, the Muslim Brotherhood continued to operate underground, with its members forming clandestine cells and networks to evade detection. The organization's resilience and ability to adapt to changing circumstances allowed it to survive and maintain its influence in Egyptian society. The legacy of the Muslim Brotherhood, with its mix of religious fervor and political activism, continues to shape the landscape of the Middle East to this day.
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