Online Class: The Gulf War

In the early '90s, a coalition spearheaded by the United States conducted a large-scale operation in Kuwait, broadcasting warfare to a global audience. This course delves into the Gulf War's historical background, tactical maneuvers, and its influence on military practice and public perception.
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  • 20
    Lessons
  • 52
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 280
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 16
    Hours
    average time
  • 1.6
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

In 1990-1991, the United States of America, under President George H. W. Bush, along with several allied nations launched a massive military operation in the tiny nation of Kuwait at the northern boundary of the Persian Gulf. This was the first war following Viet Nam in which America was actively involved in a combat role. Indeed, the United States played a key part in organizing, funding, building, executing, and maintaining the war. It was a historic confrontation in that it was the most widely-seen war in history, covered heavily on television, radio, internet, and other media outlets across the globe.

 

Beginning with Operation Desert Shield, which yielded to the much larger Operation: Desert Storm, this conflict became known as the First Gulf War. This course will examine the history and setting of the Gulf War, the motivations for fighting it, the strategies and tactics that were used, and the battles that were fought. In addition, an examination of how the Gulf War changed the nature of war, the reaction to the conflict at home, and dealing with the aftermath will be undertaken to provide a detailed and comprehensive overview of the conflagration.
 

 

Courses Frequently Bought Together:
  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.79 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(557 votes)

Lesson 1. From Deserts to Dynasties: A Brief History of Early Middle East

Kuwait and Iraq lie at the northern tip of the Persian Gulf, forming an integral part of the Arabian Peninsula's diverse yet harsh landscape characterized by arid deserts and sparse water sources. This geographical setting influenced the region's historical narratives, from ancient kingdoms to the Islamic conquests that defined the emirate of the Middle East. Additional lesson topics: Fall of Ottoman Empire destabilized Middle East; Fall of Ottoman Empire and destabilization of Middle East 55 Total Points
  • Lesson 1 Video A
  • Lesson 1 Video B
  • Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: An Introduction
  • Complete: Lesson 1 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: WWI and the Middle East
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Exam

Lesson 2. Shiites versus Sunnis: Beyond the Headlines

Sunnis, encompassing the majority of Muslims, guide their lives by the Sunna and the Koran, valuing community consensus to elect their leaders, unlike Shias who focus on Ali's lineage. Sufism, separate from these primary sects, is a mystical version of Islam that some see as a supplementary spiritual path. Additional lesson topics: Shiites v. Sunni 29 Total Points
  • Lesson 2 Video A
  • Lesson 2 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 2 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Exam

Lesson 3. Mapping Iraq and Kuwait: Geography Meets History

Iraq's political landscape consists of provinces with cities like Baghdad and Basra holding economic and cultural importance, while religion plays a critical role, with Islam being predominant. Kuwait has no political parties but features political blocs, with the capital and major cities showcasing its urban focus amid a largely inhospitable terrain. Additional lesson topics: History of Kuwait 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video A
  • Lesson 3 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 3 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Exam

Lesson 4. Behind the Frontlines: Leaders and Influencers of the Gulf Conflict

Major personalities of the Gulf War ranged from the pragmatic Secretary General of the UN, Javier Decuellar, to the decisive Commander in Chief, Norman Schwarzkopf. Their actions attempted to navigate the tense geopolitical landscape and strategize an effective military response. Additional lesson topics: The Gulf War in Brief; Israel and the Gulf War 48 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video A
  • Lesson 4 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 4 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Charles 'Chuck' Horner
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Exam

Lesson 5. Gulf War & Middle Eastern Terminology: An Introduction

This glossary introduces key terms related to the Gulf War, including military equipment such as the A-10 Thunderbolt and logistics concepts like Area of Operations. It also covers regional entities and historical contexts, providing a comprehensive backdrop for understanding the complex geopolitical landscape. 49 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video A
  • Lesson 5 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 5 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Al-Qaeda and Osama Bin Laden
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Exam

Lesson 6. An In-Depth Analysis of Gulf War Vocabulary: Part Two

This lesson offers detailed definitions of key Gulf War and Middle East terms, focusing on logistical and tactical military elements and significant geopolitical entities. By exploring equipment like the M1A1 tank and organizations like the PLO, students can better understand the complex dynamics of the Gulf War. 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 6 Video A
  • Lesson 6 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 6 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Republican Guard
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Exam

Lesson 6. An In-Depth Analysis of Gulf War Vocabulary: Part Two

This lesson offers detailed definitions of key Gulf War and Middle East terms, focusing on logistical and tactical military elements and significant geopolitical entities. By exploring equipment like the M1A1 tank and organizations like the PLO, students can better understand the complex dynamics of the Gulf War. 0 Total Points

Lesson 7. Saddam's Ascent: From Peasant to Power

The Baath Party, rooted in Arab nationalism and socialism, exerted considerable influence in Iraq, particularly under Saddam's leadership. Internal schisms within the party, however, led to power splits between Iraqi and Syrian branches, each dominated by dictatorships. Additional lesson topics: Saddam Bio on History Channel 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video A
  • Lesson 8 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 7 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: The Importance of Kuwait
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Exam

Lesson 8. Between Shahs and Ayatollahs: A Precursor to Modern Middle Eastern Politics

Lebanon's stability crumbled in the early 1980s under the pressure of fundamentalist forces led by the Palestinian Liberation Organization, causing the nation to spiral into civil war. Interventions by Israel, Syria, and even U.S. marines failed to prevent the rise of extremist control, influencing broader regional dynamics. Additional lesson topics: How the Middle East was divided up after WWI 49 Total Points
  • Lesson 9 Video A
  • Lesson 9 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 8 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: The Lebanese Civil War
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Exam

Lesson 9. Saddam's Strategic Calculations: Weaponry and Justifications

Leveraging sophisticated arms from global suppliers, Saddam aimed to extend his influence by invading Kuwait, justified through a mix of historical claims and financial motivations. This lesson details the strategic use of his military arsenal to dominate neighboring Kuwait swiftly. 29 Total Points
  • Lesson 10 Video A
  • Lesson 10 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 9 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Exam

Lesson 9. Saddam's Strategic Calculations: Weaponry and Justifications

Leveraging sophisticated arms from global suppliers, Saddam aimed to extend his influence by invading Kuwait, justified through a mix of historical claims and financial motivations. This lesson details the strategic use of his military arsenal to dominate neighboring Kuwait swiftly. 0 Total Points

Lesson 10. Forging the Modern Warrior: The Evolution of the U.S. Military Post-Vietnam

The U.S. military's transition to a volunteer force after 1975 fostered a new military sub-culture that excelled in readiness and innovation. The Gulf War epitomized this change, introducing groundbreaking technology that redefined battle tactics. Additional lesson topics: Gulf War Syndrome 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 12 Video A
  • Lesson 12 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 10 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Maneuver Warfare in the Gulf War
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Exam

Lesson 11. A Sudden Offensive: Iraq's Bold Move Against Kuwait

The sudden and forceful occupation of Kuwait by Iraqi forces in 1990 resulted in appalling human rights violations and left the small nation under the iron grip of Saddam Hussein's military might. Facing the potential threat to Saudi Arabia, the U.S. and its allies recognized the urgent need for a strategic coalition to counteract Iraq's aggressive expansion. Additional lesson topics: Iraqi Invasion of Kuwait; Flames of Kuwait 99 Total Points
  • Lesson 13 Video A
  • Lesson 13 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 11 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: America gets involved in the Middle East
  • Complete Assignment: Why did Hussein Invade Kuwait?
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Exam

Lesson 12. Mobilizing America: Strategic Decisions and Global Implications

The unexpected aggression from Iraq against Kuwait forced the United States into reevaluating its foreign policies in the Middle East. As Kuwait's brave resistance waned, an expansive coalition rallied to stabilize the volatile region against Saddam's ambitions. Additional lesson topics: Gulf War Coalition 30 Total Points
  • Lesson 14 Video A
  • Lesson 14 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 12 Assignment
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Exam

Lesson 13. Desert Shield Unveiled: The Coalition's Defensive Strategy

Anticipating potential aggression by Iraq, the U.S.-led Coalition strategically positioned forces in Saudi Arabia, altering military plans from defensive to offensive operations. Logistical excellence and international cooperation were crucial in preparing for the impending Operation Desert Storm. 46 Total Points
  • Lesson 15 Video A
  • Lesson 15 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 13 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: People Behind Desert Shield
  • Assessment: Lesson 13 Exam

Lesson 14. Under Pressure: Coalition Challenges and Jordan's Dilemma

The U.S.-led naval blockade in 1990 marked a critical step in the Gulf War, as tensions with Iraq intensified with each interception of maritime vessels. Saddam Hussein's economic and military capabilities were under siege, as debates over enforcement strategies revealed internal Coalition conflicts. Additional lesson topics: Naval Blockade during Gulf War 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 16 Video A
  • Lesson 16 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 14 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Why was the Gulf War different?
  • Assessment: Lesson 14 Exam

Lesson 15. Air Assault: The Beginning

Operation Desert Storm's air campaign began with a coordinated strike led by Apache helicopters, destroying Iraqi early-warning radar and opening the skies for follow-up missions. Coalition forces, using advanced technology, overwhelmed Iraq's defenses with precision attacks on key targets, showcasing U.S. air superiority. Additional lesson topics: Air War; The Ground War 54 Total Points
  • Lesson 17 Video A
  • Lesson 17 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 15 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Iraqi Air Defenses?
  • Assessment: Lesson 15 Exam

Lesson 16. Operation Desert Storm: Ground Battle Insights

Operation Desert Storm's ground phase commenced to quickly wrap up the conflict as bombing raids elicited international empathy for Iraq. The Battle of Khafji marked a pivotal moment, showcasing Coalition resilience against a surprise Iraqi attack, ultimately turning the tide with a decisive counteroffensive. 35 Total Points
  • Lesson 18 Video A
  • Lesson 18 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 16 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Hussein Tries to defend Iraq and break up the Coalition
  • Assessment: Lesson 16 Exam

Lesson 17. War's Conclusion and Media Revolution

Although Coalition forces defeated Iraq, the decision not to overthrow Saddam Hussein left unresolved tensions, leading to future conflicts in the region. Media's role in the Gulf War signaled a new era of warfare journalism, with real-time coverage altering the narrative and influencing public opinion globally. 50 Total Points
  • Lesson 19 Video A
  • Lesson 19 Video B
  • Complete: Lesson 17 Assignment
  • Complete Assignment: Aftermath of the Gulf War
  • Assessment: Lesson 17 Exam

Lesson 18. The Pivotal Gulf War Timeline

The 1990 Gulf War ignited when Iraq accused Kuwait of economic offenses and annexed the nation, escalating regional tensions. The conflict ended with coalition forces led by the U.S. reclaiming Kuwait through a strategically executed ground offensive. Additional lesson topics: The Gulf War: A Chronology 92 Total Points
  • Lesson 20 Video A
  • Lesson 20 Video B
  • Lesson discussions: What is your opinion of this course?; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments
  • Complete Assignment: Was the Gulf War Worth it?
  • Complete Assignment: Was it Worth It?
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
895
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Summarize the reasons and evidence for going to war.
  • Summarize the history and conflicts of the nations involved.
  • Identify who's who in the gulf war.
  • Describe Saddam Hussein.
  • Describe the history leading up to the war, including the role of Israel, oil, terrorism, and hostages.
  • Describe Saddam's battle plan.
  • Summarize the Iraqi invasion.
  • Operation Desert Shield
  • Summarize Operation Desert Shield.
  • Summarize Operation Desert Storm.
  • Summarize the end of the war, the media, and the aftermath.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
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Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: The Gulf War
Course Number: 7550444
Lessons Rating: 4.79 / 5 Stars (557 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: Enroll in this course from any U.S. state, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. The course is also accessible to learners in English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and South Africa.
Last Updated: February 2024
CEU Value: 1.6 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Classes
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "This course helped me to have a clearer understanding of the complex situations in the Middle East...the history of terrorism and the Gulf War were my 2 favorite lessons...." -- Evelyne B.

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