Middle east

Middle East

The Middle East is a transcontinental region centered on Western Asia and Egypt in North Africa. It is a region of great geopolitical importance, rich in history, culture, and natural resources, particularly oil. The term "Middle East" is relatively modern and has been used since the early 20th century.

Geography

The Middle East encompasses a variety of landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and fertile plains. It is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the northwest, the Red Sea to the southwest, the Arabian Sea to the southeast, and the Persian Gulf to the east. Major rivers such as the Tigris and Euphrates flow through the region, providing vital water resources.

Countries

The Middle East typically includes the following countries:

• Saudi Arabia
• Iran
• Iraq
• Israel
• Jordan
• Lebanon
• Syria
• United Arab Emirates
• Qatar
• Kuwait
• Bahrain
• Oman
• Yemen
• Egypt
• Turkey

History

The Middle East is often referred to as the "cradle of civilization" due to its role in the development of early human societies. It is home to some of the world's oldest cities and was the birthplace of major religions such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Ancient Civilizations

The region was home to several ancient civilizations, including the Sumerians, Akkadians, Babylonians, and Assyrians in Mesopotamia, as well as the Ancient Egyptians along the Nile River.

Islamic Caliphates

The rise of Islam in the 7th century CE led to the establishment of several caliphates, including the Umayyad Caliphate and the Abbasid Caliphate, which expanded across the Middle East and beyond.

Modern Era

The 20th century saw significant political changes in the Middle East, including the decline of the Ottoman Empire, the establishment of modern nation-states, and the discovery of oil, which has had a profound impact on the region's economy and international relations.

Economy

The Middle East is a major global supplier of oil and natural gas, with countries like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Iraq possessing some of the largest reserves in the world. The region's economy is heavily influenced by the energy sector, although there are efforts to diversify into other industries such as tourism, finance, and technology.

Culture

The Middle East is known for its rich cultural heritage, including art, music, literature, and cuisine. The region has a diverse population with a variety of ethnic groups, languages, and traditions.

Politics

The Middle East is a region of complex political dynamics, with ongoing conflicts and tensions. Key issues include the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Syrian civil war, and the rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

Also see

• Arabian Peninsula
• Persian Gulf
• Levant
• Mesopotamia
• Ottoman Empire
• Islamic Golden Age