World Studies

Why is North Africa considered part of this region? Historically, the region has more similarities with Arabic countries than Central or South African.

The term “Middle East” was based on the location of Europe (Eurocentric) The Middle East was in between Europe and the Far East (China, Japan) Southwest Asia puts Asia at the center and not Europe.

Europe Far East Middle East

This region connects 3 continents: Asia, Africa, and Europe. Many major bodies of water also surround the region. Red Sea, Persian Gulf, Caspian Sea, Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea. All are very important in trade and travel. Because of this, Southwest Asia has always been a major focal point for trade. Migrating people spread ideas and inventions throughout the region.

Modern day Turkey and Iran Mountains and plateaus Anatolian Plateau (Turkey): Fertile soil, adequate precipitation allows for large population Iranian Plateau (Iran): Dry, small population

Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, Qatar, U.A.E. Covered in desert (Rub Al- Khali) Large land area Small population Scarce drinking water Oasis- fertile land area with water that supports lots of desert life Surrounded by important bodies of water. Large amounts of oil lay beneath the surface= $$$

Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Israel. Tigris and Euphrates rivers create rich soils that sustain large populations Home of the earliest civilizations

Egypt People live along the Nile due to abundance of fresh water and fertile soil. The rest of Egypt is desert and sparsely inhabited. Close to the Suez Canal Sinai Pen. Med. Sea Red Sea

Northern Africa, inc. Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco. Sahara desert, Atlas mts. Major cities on the Mediterranean coast. Most of the population lives near the coast where there is more rain.