I.B. Tauris: A History of Middle East Studies Publishing
Founded in 1983 by Iradj Bagherzade, I.B. Tauris entered the literary market with a clear and ambitious mission. The company sought to bridge the gap between trade publishing houses—which focus on general commercial appeal—and university presses, which typically produce highly specialized academic research. By positioning itself in the middle, I.B. Tauris aimed to publish works on international politics and culture that were intellectually serious yet accessible to a broader audience.
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Specialization and Early Growth
From its inception, the company focused heavily on the Middle East, establishing itself as a specialist in the region's complex political and cultural landscapes. This strategic focus allowed the firm to grow steadily; by 2002, I.B. Tauris was publishing approximately 160 books per year.
Global Impact and the Taliban Publication
The company experienced a significant surge in global visibility following the events of September 11, 2001. During this period, it published Taliban by Ahmed Rashid. The book became a critical international success, selling nearly 500,000 copies in English worldwide and appearing in 27 licensed editions across various international markets.
Strategic Acquisitions and Partnerships
As the company expanded, it diversified its portfolio and strengthened its distribution networks through key business moves.
- Fine Arts Expansion: In May 2011, I.B. Tauris acquired Philip Wilson Publishers, a specialist in fine arts. This acquisition followed several years of I.B. Tauris managing the sales, marketing, and distribution for the firm.
- The AUCP Agreement: In June 2013, the company entered into a strategic agreement with the American University in Cairo Press (AUCP). Under this arrangement, I.B. Tauris became the worldwide distributor for all AUCP publications, excluding North America and Egypt.
Beyond distribution, I.B. Tauris and AUCP engaged in a series of international co-publications. This partnership was part of a broader strategy to establish I.B. Tauris as the dominant force in the field of international Middle East Studies publishing.
Integration into Bloomsbury Publishing
The trajectory of the company reached a new milestone in 2018 when I.B. Tauris was acquired by Bloomsbury Publishing. Following this acquisition, I.B. Tauris transitioned from an independent house to an imprint—a specialized trade name under a larger publishing umbrella—of Bloomsbury.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1983 by Iradj Bagherzade.
- Core Mission: Bridging the gap between trade publishing and university presses.
- Primary Specialization: Middle East politics and culture.
- Major Success: Ahmed Rashid's Taliban (approx. 500,000 English copies sold).
- Key Acquisition: Philip Wilson Publishers (2011).
- Strategic Partner: American University in Cairo Press (2013).
- Current Status: An imprint of Bloomsbury Publishing (since 2018).
| Year | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1983 | Foundation | Established by Iradj Bagherzade to publish accessible scholarly works. |
| 2002 | Growth Milestone | Reached a volume of approximately 160 books per year. |
| 2011 | Acquisition | Purchased Philip Wilson Publishers to enter the fine arts market. |
| 2013 | AUCP Partnership | Became global distributor for American University in Cairo Press. |
| 2018 | Merger | Acquired by Bloomsbury Publishing. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded I.B. Tauris and when?
I.B. Tauris was founded in 1983 by Iradj Bagherzade.
What was the primary goal of the publishing house?
The company aimed to fill the gap between academic university presses and commercial trade publishing houses by producing serious but accessible works on international culture and politics.
Which book brought the company significant international attention after 2001?
The publication of Taliban by Ahmed Rashid was a major success, selling nearly 500,000 English copies and being released in 27 licensed editions worldwide.
What is the relationship between I.B. Tauris and the American University in Cairo Press?
Starting in June 2013, I.B. Tauris began distributing AUCP publications worldwide (except in Egypt and North America) and collaborated on several international co-publications.
Who owns I.B. Tauris today?
I.B. Tauris was acquired by Bloomsbury Publishing in 2018 and now operates as an imprint of that house.