Geography 210 - The Middle East

What climatic feature dominates the Middle East?

Arid climates

What is the largest desert in the world?

Sahara Desert

What is the most valuable natural resource in the Middle East?

Water

Where do the Nile River's headwaters come from?

Mountains of Ethiopia and Highlands of East Africa

What major religious texts do Jews follow?

The Torah

What significant change occurred in the Middle East climate approximately 5,000 years ago?

The climate became drier.

What event led to the spread of Judaism across the Middle East and Europe?

The Jewish Diaspora after the war with Romans in 70 AD.

What is the main religious difference between Sunni and Shia Muslims?

Sunni Muslims make up about 85% of the Muslim population, while Shia Muslims represent a smaller portion.

What was the purpose of the Balfour Declaration?

To promise a Jewish homeland in Palestine.

What was the outcome of the Six Day War in 1967?

Israel gained territory including the Sinai Peninsula, West Bank, Gaza Strip, and Golan Heights.

What organization is known for coordinating oil-producing countries?

OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries).

What is salinization in agriculture?

The accumulation of salts in soil that makes it unusable for agriculture.

In which historical region is Mesopotamia located?

Between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers.

What was a consequence of the oil embargo on the USA in 1973?

Oil prices tripled nearly overnight.

Which two rivers are the main water source for Iraq and Syria?

The Tigris and Euphrates Rivers.

What agricultural products were first cultivated in the Fertile Crescent?

Wheat, barley, rye, oats, grapes, apples, and olives.

What is the significance of the Aswan High Dam?

It provides a significant amount of electricity for Egypt but has reduced in importance over time.

What historical event marked the beginning of increased Jewish immigration to Palestine?

The Balfour Declaration in 1917.

What do Arabs and Jews both claim concerning the right to land in Palestine?

Both groups have historical claims to the same land, leading to conflict.

What natural features contribute to the lack of vegetation in arid climates?

Irregular rainfall, high evaporation, and low precipitation.

What is the difference between a fragile state and a failed state?

A fragile state has weak governance, while a failed state has no power over its territory or people.

Who was the founder of Islam?

Prophet Muhammad.

What factor contributed to the decline of support for Saudi Arabia from the USA?

The USA's disengagement from the Persian Gulf since 2016.

What was the primary response of Palestinians following the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948?

Many became refugees, with some fleeing to neighboring countries.