Entity: MIDDLE-EAST
The Middle East is a geopolitical region encompassing countries in northern Africa and southwestern Asia, including the Arabian Peninsula, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, the Levant, and Turkey. It serves as a major crossroads between Asia, Africa, and Europe, with historical significance dating back centuries.
MIDDLE-EAST
Etymology
The term 'Middle East' was coined in the early 20th century by Western European nations as a replacement for the term 'Near East'.
Definition
The Middle East refers to a geopolitical region encompassing the Arabian Peninsula, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, the Levant, and Turkey.
Historical Context
The Middle East has been a significant crossroads between Asia, Africa, and Europe for centuries, with major access points to Asia such as the Suez Canal, the Red Sea, and the Persian Gulf.
Cultural Significance
The Middle East is rich in cultural diversity, with influences from various civilizations and religions, including Islam, Christianity, and Judaism.
Related Concepts
The Middle East is often associated with the Near East and the Far East, representing different regions of Asia and Africa.
See Also
A region that spans from Libya east to Afghanistan, typically including countries like Egypt, Sudan, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and other Arabian nations.