This study analyzes the historical subjugation of Eastern Christianity under Islamic rule, tracing its decline from the seventh to the twentieth century. Bat Ye'or, a pioneer in the study of 'dhimmitude,' examines the dogma and strategies of jihad as the primary mechanism for this subjugation. The book presents a broad historical panorama of Christians and Jews within Islamic governance, detailing how these populations, once centers of prestigious civilizations, were conquered and subjected to Shari'a law across Mediterranean regions and Mesopotamia. The author argues that understanding this historical context is crucial for contemporary religious dialogue and reconciliation.

Bat Ye'or's work is recognized as a foundational text in the study of the status of non-Muslims under Islamic rule, a field she helped define with the term 'dhimmitude.' The book offers a comprehensive historical analysis, drawing on extensive documentation to illustrate the long-term impact of jihad and Islamic law on Christian and Jewish populations across vast territories. Its detailed examination of historical subjugation is presented as essential for understanding current geopolitical and interfaith relations. The translation into English makes this pioneering research accessible to a wider audience seeking to grasp the historical roots of contemporary challenges.