International Conflict and the Media

ACTIVITY 13: The Gulf War, Operation Desert Storm

Introduction

The Gulf War was over 43 days after it began. Observers pointed out that it was a war byappointment. Iraq was ordered to leave Kuwait by January 15, 1991. When it failed to do so, theCoalition attacked targets in Kuwait and Iraq. This activity examines the "quick" victory, andexamines the consequences of the war.

Student Objectives

• To understand basic information about the air and land war.
• To examine the consequences of the Gulf War.

Time

1 class period

Materials

Copies of Readings 13A-C for each student; poster paper from Activity 12

Recommended Procedures

1. Distribute Readings 13A and 13B. After the students have read them, ask them to consider:

Why the Coalition victory was so quickly achieved.

2. Distribute Reading 13C. After the students have read it, have them compare:

The reasons why Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait with the consequences of the war. Werehis goals achieved?

The reasons why President Bush went into the war with the actual outcomes of the war (seethe information gathered in Activity 12). Were his goals achieved?

Note:

Additional information about Iraqi military and civilian casualties can be found in Reading 17D.

Return to the Contents page for International Conflict and the Media.

Go to Activity 14.

Go to the Bibliography.