Africa and Middle East Exam Review

Flashcards generated from lecture notes on Africa and the Middle East.

How did the Suez Canal change trade?

The Suez Canal provided a shorter trade route between Europe and Asia, significantly reducing travel time and costs.

Why does the United States have sanctions on Iran?

The United States has sanctions on Iran due to concerns over Iran's nuclear program, its support for terrorism, and its human rights record.

What is Saudi Arabia building and why? What type of government do they have?

Saudi Arabia is building large-scale infrastructure and tourism projects as part of its Vision 2030 plan to diversify its economy away from oil; it has an absolute monarchy.

What are the climate types in North/East Africa?

North/East Africa has desert climates (Sahara), Mediterranean climates (coastal areas), and tropical climates (near the equator).

What is desertification and can it be stopped?

Desertification is the process by which fertile land turns into desert, often due to deforestation, overgrazing, and climate change. It can be slowed or reversed through sustainable land management practices.

How did Islam arrive in North Africa?

Islam arrived in North Africa through the Arab conquests in the 7th and 8th centuries.

How are family structures different than in America?

Family structures in North Africa and other regions can be more extended and communal compared to the nuclear family structure common in America.

How did Ethiopia become the first Christian country? How did that impact it?

Ethiopia became the first Christian country in the 4th century AD under King Ezana, which gave it a unique cultural and religious identity and influenced its political development.

What is slash and burn agriculture and what is a benefit and a consequence of it?

Slash and burn agriculture is a method of clearing land for farming by cutting down and burning vegetation. A benefit is the release of nutrients into the soil, but a consequence is deforestation and soil degradation.

Why is Lagos Nigeria struggling with development?

Lagos, Nigeria, struggles with development due to rapid urbanization, inadequate infrastructure, pollution, and socioeconomic inequality.

Why do so many people live around Lake Victoria and what are its problems?

Many people live around Lake Victoria due to its fertile land, freshwater resources, and transportation routes. Problems include pollution, overfishing, and water hyacinth infestation.

What are the two pillars of Islam that we studied and how do they show Islam's view of salvation? How is this different from Christianity's view of salvation?

The two pillars of Islam mentioned are likely Shahada (declaration of faith) and Salat (prayer). These show Islam's view that salvation is achieved through submission to God. Christianity emphasizes faith and grace through Jesus as the means for salvation

How did colonization impact Africa?

Colonization led to exploitation of resources, political instability, arbitrary borders, and cultural disruption in Africa.

How was West Africa impacted by colonization/ the slave trade?

West Africa was severely impacted by the slave trade, leading to population loss, economic disruption, and social fragmentation. Colonization furthered these issues by imposing foreign rule and economic exploitation.

What are the climates in Southern Africa? Which is the best for living in?

Southern Africa has Mediterranean, desert, and subtropical climates. The Mediterranean climate (e.g., in the Western Cape) is often considered the best for living due to its moderate temperatures and rainfall.

What is poaching?

Poaching is the illegal hunting or capturing of wild animals, often for their valuable body parts.

How are blood diamonds related to Africa's development?

Blood diamonds are mined in war zones and sold to finance armed conflicts and civil wars, hindering development and perpetuating violence in Africa.

Who is Nelson Mandela?

Nelson Mandela was an anti-apartheid revolutionary, politician, and philanthropist who served as South Africa's first black president.

What is the Apartheid and how does it impact South Africa currently?

Apartheid was a system of racial segregation and discrimination enforced in South Africa from 1948 to 1994. It continues to impact South Africa through socioeconomic inequalities and racial tensions.

Explain the Israel Gaza Conflict and if there is a realistic peaceful resolution. Be sure to include concepts such as religion, terrorism, and governments.

The Israel-Gaza conflict is a complex issue rooted in territorial disputes, religious differences, and political power struggles between Israel and Palestinian factions like Hamas. Terrorism is a tactic used by some groups, and governments play a role in negotiations. A peaceful resolution is challenging due to deep-seated mistrust and competing claims.

Compare and contrast the areas around the Tropic of Cancer/Capricorn and the areas around the equator? What are the climates like? What about access to resources?

Areas around the Tropic of Cancer and Capricorn typically experience subtropical or desert climates, while areas around the equator have tropical climates. Access to resources varies, with equatorial regions often having abundant rainfall and biodiversity, while subtropical regions may face water scarcity.

Compare and Contrast these three forms of government: Democracy, Communism, and Dictatorship. Give an example of a country that has each form of government

Democracy involves elected representation (e.g. USA), Communism involves state control of production aiming for equality (e.g. China), and Dictatorship involves rule by a single unelected authority (e.g. North Korea). They contrast over the degree of civil liberties, economic control, and power distribution.

Who was Nelson Mandela and what was his view on Civil Disobedience? Give examples to back your answer

Nelson Mandela was a key anti-apartheid leader who advocated for civil disobedience as a non-violent way to resist unjust laws. Examples include his involvement in the Defiance Campaign and peaceful protests against the apartheid regime.

Why are Israel and Hamas fighting over Gaza?

Israel and Hamas are fighting over Gaza due to territorial claims, security concerns, and differing political ideologies.

What are the core beliefs of Islam?

The core beliefs of Islam include belief in one God (Allah), the prophets (including Muhammad), and the Quran as the word of God, and the five pillars of Islam.

What are two valuable resources in the Middle East and why are they so valuable?

Two valuable resources in the Middle East are oil and natural gas, which are valuable due to their high demand as energy sources and their role in the global economy.