1.
Which of the following religions is the oldest?
Correct Answer
A. Judaism
Explanation
Judaism is considered the oldest religion among the options provided. It dates back to ancient times and has its origins in the Middle East. Judaism emerged as a distinct religious tradition around 2000 BCE with the covenant between God and Abraham. This makes it older than both Christianity and Islam, which emerged later in history. The Druse (Druze) religion, on the other hand, is a relatively newer religion that originated in the 11th century. Therefore, Judaism is the correct answer as it predates the other options provided.
2.
Which of the following is NOT an independent state?
Correct Answer
D. Kurdistan
Explanation
Kurdistan is not an independent state. While there is a region referred to as Kurdistan, it is not recognized as an independent country. Kurdistan is an ethnic and cultural region that spans parts of Turkey, Iraq, Iran, and Syria, but it does not have its own independent government or sovereignty. Therefore, Kurdistan does not meet the criteria to be considered an independent state.
3.
The largest city in the Middle East and North Africa is
Correct Answer
A. Yemen.
Explanation
The given question asks for the largest city in the Middle East and North Africa. The correct answer is Yemen, as it is the largest country in the region by land area. However, it is important to note that Yemen is a country, not a city. Therefore, the question seems to be incomplete or incorrect, as it does not provide options for cities.
4.
Zionism represents the world political movement for the
Correct Answer
A. Establishment of a Jewish homeland.
Explanation
Zionism is a political movement that advocates for the establishment of a Jewish homeland. It originated in the late 19th century and gained momentum in response to increasing anti-Semitism and the desire for a safe haven for Jewish people. The movement led to the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. The other options mentioned in the question, such as the establishment of a Palestinian homeland in Palestine, a Kurdish homeland in Kurdistan, or the return of Mt. Ararat to Armenia, do not accurately represent the goals and objectives of Zionism.
5.
Cultural differences are some of the reasons for the tensions between Iraq and Iran, because most Iraqis are __________, while most Iranians are __________.
Correct Answer
A. Arabic/Persian
Explanation
Cultural differences between Iraq and Iran, specifically the difference in language, contribute to the tensions between the two countries. Most Iraqis speak Arabic, while most Iranians speak Persian. This language barrier can lead to misunderstandings and difficulties in communication, which can further exacerbate the existing tensions between the two nations.
6.
OPEC is a group of
Correct Answer
A. Zionists.
Explanation
The given answer is incorrect. OPEC stands for the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, which is a group of oil-exporting nations. It is an intergovernmental organization consisting of countries that produce and export significant amounts of petroleum. The term "Zionists" refers to individuals or groups who support the establishment and development of a Jewish homeland in the region of Israel. There is no direct connection between OPEC and Zionism.
7.
Which country was NOT involved in the post-WW I period when the Ottoman Empire was carved up under the League of Nations mandate system?
Correct Answer
B. The United States
Explanation
During the post-WWI period, the Ottoman Empire was divided under the League of Nations mandate system, with France, Britain, and Italy being involved in the process. However, the United States was not directly involved in the carving up of the Ottoman Empire. This can be attributed to the fact that the United States did not join the League of Nations and pursued a policy of isolationism during this period. Therefore, the United States is the correct answer as it was not involved in the post-WWI division of the Ottoman Empire.
8.
____________ is a pilgrimage to Mecca.
Correct Answer
C. Hajj
Explanation
Hajj is a pilgrimage to Mecca. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is considered a religious duty for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it. The pilgrimage takes place during the month of Dhu al-Hijjah and involves a series of rituals, including circling the Kaaba, walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa, and standing on the plain of Arafat. Hajj is a significant event in the life of a Muslim and is believed to cleanse the soul and bring spiritual fulfillment.
9.
Which country is NOT a part of the Eastern Mediterranean Crescent discussed in the text?
Correct Answer
C. Syria
Explanation
Syria is not a part of the Eastern Mediterranean Crescent discussed in the text. The Eastern Mediterranean Crescent refers to a geographic region that includes Israel, Egypt, Turkey, and Lebanon. Syria is not included in this region.
10.
The violent uprising of Palestinians against the Israeli occupation is called
Correct Answer
A. Hamas.
11.
The __________ is a set of practical guidelines to behavior for Muslims.
Correct Answer
D. Sunna
Explanation
The Sunna refers to the teachings, actions, and practices of the Prophet Muhammad. It is considered a set of practical guidelines for behavior that Muslims should follow. The Sunna includes the Prophet's sayings (Hadith) as well as his actions and approvals. It provides a comprehensive example for Muslims to emulate in their daily lives, covering various aspects such as personal hygiene, prayer, fasting, charity, and social interactions. By following the Sunna, Muslims aim to live a life in accordance with the teachings and example of the Prophet Muhammad.
12.
Which of the following religions was born in the Middle East and North Africa region?
Correct Answer
D. All of these
Explanation
All of these religions were born in the Middle East and North Africa region. Islam originated in the Arabian Peninsula in the 7th century, Christianity originated in the Levant region (modern-day Israel, Palestine, Jordan, and Syria) in the 1st century, and Judaism originated in ancient Israel. These religions have deep historical and cultural roots in the Middle East and North Africa, and continue to have a significant presence in the region.
13.
The Ottoman empire was based on the Anatolian Plateau in modern
Correct Answer
B. Turkey.
Explanation
The correct answer is Turkey because the Ottoman Empire was primarily located on the Anatolian Plateau, which is in modern-day Turkey. The empire expanded its territories to include parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa, but its heartland and capital were situated in Anatolia. Turkey was the center of political and cultural power for the Ottoman Empire, making it the most appropriate answer.
14.
The Balfour Declaration was a __________ British mandate that required the establishment of a Jewish homeland.
Correct Answer
A. 1917
Explanation
The Balfour Declaration was a significant document issued by the British government in 1917. It expressed support for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine. This declaration played a crucial role in the eventual creation of the state of Israel.
15.
After being part of the Ottoman Empire, Algeria became a possession of this country.
Correct Answer
D. France
Explanation
After being part of the Ottoman Empire, Algeria became a possession of France. This is because France colonized Algeria in the 19th century and established it as a French territory. The colonization of Algeria by France lasted for over a century, and during this time, France implemented policies to exert control over the region, including the imposition of French language, culture, and administration. This colonization had a significant impact on Algeria's history and continues to shape its relationship with France today.
16.
Which of the following is the dominant religion in the Middle East and North Africa?
Correct Answer
C. Islam
Explanation
Islam is the dominant religion in the Middle East and North Africa due to its historical and cultural significance in the region. It originated in the Arabian Peninsula and spread throughout the area, becoming the majority religion in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran, and Turkey. With a rich history and strong presence, Islam has shaped the social, political, and religious landscape of the Middle East and North Africa for centuries.
17.
In North Africa, this is a tunnel well dug into the base of a mountain.
Correct Answer
A. Foggara
Explanation
A foggara is a type of tunnel that is dug into the base of a mountain in North Africa. It is used to transport water from underground sources to the surface for irrigation purposes. This method of water extraction has been used for centuries in arid regions and is an important part of the agricultural practices in North Africa.
18.
Which of the following is defined as a loose, usually black robe worn by Muslim women that covers the body including the face, from head to toe?
Correct Answer
C. Chador
Explanation
A chador is a loose, usually black robe worn by Muslim women that covers the body including the face, from head to toe. It is commonly worn in Iran and other Middle Eastern countries as a form of modesty and adherence to Islamic dress codes. The chador allows women to maintain their privacy and protect their modesty by covering their entire body, including their hair and face.
19.
In which of these societies would women appear to have the LEAST freedom?
Correct Answer
B. Saudi Arabia
Explanation
Saudi Arabia is known for its strict adherence to conservative interpretations of Islamic law, which heavily restricts women's rights and freedoms. Women in Saudi Arabia face numerous restrictions on their daily lives, including limitations on their ability to travel, work, and make decisions without male permission. They are also required to wear an abaya (a full-length cloak) in public and are segregated from men in many public spaces. Therefore, compared to the other societies listed, Saudi Arabia appears to have the least freedom for women.
20.
The Berbers are found mostly in
Correct Answer
E. Morocco and Algeria.
Explanation
The correct answer is Morocco and Algeria. The Berbers are an ethnic group indigenous to North Africa, particularly concentrated in Morocco and Algeria. They have a rich cultural heritage and have historically inhabited this region for thousands of years. This answer is supported by historical and geographical evidence, as well as the known distribution of the Berber population in modern times.