9-2 Resources and Religion The Importance of Oil Today, nearly ½ the worlds oil is found in this region Saudi Arabia- worlds leading oil producer

1960- Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela formed the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countires- OPEC. Oil is the regions most important primary product, or raw material.

Many countries have also developed secondary products, or goods manufactured from primary products. Petrochemicals- chemicals made from crude oil that are used to manufacture cosmetics, plastics, synthetic materials, detergents, and fertilizers.

Religion in the Region Islam is the dominant religion in the region. Copts of Egypt and Maronites of Lebanon are two Christian communities. The five pillars of Islam are woven into the fabric of everyday life. Haj- pilgrimage to Mecca.

During the ninth month of the Islamic year called Ramadan Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset.

Westernization vs. Traditional Culture Many people in the region believe that western nations exert too much influence on their culture. Fast-food, T-shirts, television, and rap music are examples of westernization.

The Roles of Women In some countries, religion limits the roles of women. Saudi Arabia- women can’t attend gatherings with men, or drive cars. A Saudi woman can have only one husband, but a man can have four wives.

Clothing and Culture Clothing reveals much about the culture. Orthodox Jewish

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A Disappearing Nomadic Culture