Understanding Bahrain: How Bahrain Shines a Light on US Imperial Policies http://dissidentvoice.org/2011/03/understanding-bahrain-how-bahrain-shines-a-light-on-us-imperial-policies/

If one were asked to write a list of nations strategically important to the United States, it is doubtful that Bahrain would make an appearance. In fact, before the ‘Great Arab Revolt’ of 2010-11, most Americans probably lacked the ability to locate Bahrain on a map, much less understand the vital strategic importance of this small island nation. However, Bahrain is a crucial hub in America’s regional imperial strategy. In what follows, we offer a primer on Bahrain focusing specifically on US interests in the region and the recent upheaval that has caught much of the world off guard.