middle east final exam

Arab Spring

A series of pro-democracy uprisings across the Arab world starting in late 2010, sparked by economic hardship, corruption, and authoritarianism.

Trigger of Arab Spring

The self-immolation of Mohamed Bouazizi in Tunisia after police harassment, which became a symbol of repression.

Causes of Arab Spring

High youth unemployment, corruption, police brutality, lack of political freedoms, rising food prices and inequality.

Consequences of Arab Spring in Egypt

Mubarak was ousted, leading to a short-lived democracy followed by military rule under Sisi.

Consequences of Arab Spring in Syria

Peaceful protests escalated into a brutal civil war.

Causes of Turmoil in the Middle East

Colonial legacies, sectarian divisions, authoritarianism, economic inequality, foreign interventions, resource competition.

Authoritarian Rule

A system where power is held by a single ruler or small elite, lacking free elections and limiting freedoms.

Causes of Iranian Revolution (1979)

Discontent with the Shah’s authoritarianism, economic problems, corruption, religious opposition, and loss of legitimacy.

Current U.S. Foreign Policy in the Middle East

Focus on counterterrorism, supporting allies, managing Iran, and stabilizing conflict zones.

Civil War in Syria

Sparked by protests against Assad in 2011, followed by brutal crackdowns and sectarian tensions.

Civil War in Yemen Causes

2011 uprising and Houthi rebellion against the central government amid sectarian divides.

Balfour Declaration (1917)

British promise to support a 'national home for the Jewish people' in Palestine, leading to conflict with Arabs.

Marginalization of Palestinian Identity

Displacement after 1948 and tensions intensified by the Balfour Declaration.

Atatürk vs. Reza Shah

Both aimed at modernization, but Atatürk emphasized secularism, while Reza Shah focused on centralization.

Creation of Iraq after WWI

Established by Britain from Ottoman provinces, leading to a monarchy under British influence.

Pan-Arabism Goals of Abdel Nasser

Unite Arab states under socialism and independence from colonial powers, exemplified by nationalization of the Suez Canal.

Muslim Brotherhood

Founded in 1928 in Egypt by Hassan al-Banna, advocating governance based on Sharia and opposing Western influence.

Saudi Arabia's Power Basis

Absolute monarchy reliant on oil wealth, religious legitimacy, and tribal alliances.

1953 Coup in Iran

CIA and MI6 supported the overthrow of PM Mossadegh after he nationalized oil, reinstating the Shah.

Who Are the Alawites?

A minority Shia sect in Syria, forming the basis of Assad's power.

Current ruler of Syria

Bashar al-Assad, backed by Russia and Iran, continues to hold power despite ongoing civil war.