Mr. Lovera's Virtual Classroom

Over the next 9 weeks, we will be expoloring the fascinating region of North Africa and the Middle East.

Why is the Middle East important to study? I find there are 3 main reasons.

1. Civilization:  If you like Chik Fil A or the Baltimore Ravens or your job, then you owe this region a debt of gratitude. For the very first civilizations began popping up along the Nile, Tigris & Euphrates river valleys. If not for them, we may still be hunting and gathering for our food.
2. Monotheism: Prior to the foundation of Judaism, all people practiced various forms of paganism or polytheism or the belief in one G-d. After Judaism came Islam. All three of these religions were born or raised in the Middle East.
3. Petrolium: Over 60% of the world's petroleum (or oil) can be founf in this region. As a result, this region is super important to nations dependent on oil, like China and the USA.