Egypt
Egypt is a country located in the northeastern corner of Africa. It is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, Gaza Strip and Israel to the northeast, Red Sea to the east, Sudan to the south, and Libya to the west. Here are some key aspects of Egypt:
History
- Pharaonic Egypt: The history of Ancient Egypt spans from around 3100 BC with the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt under the first pharaoh, Narmer. This era is known for its monumental architecture, including the Pyramids of Giza, and its rich cultural legacy.
- Greco-Roman Period: Following the conquest by Alexander the Great in 332 BC, Egypt came under Ptolemaic and then Roman rule. This period saw the creation of the Library of Alexandria and the spread of Hellenistic culture.
- Islamic Conquest: In 639 AD, Egypt was conquered by Arab armies, leading to the spread of Islam and the Arabic language, which became the official language.
- Ottoman and Modern Era: Egypt was part of the Ottoman Empire from 1517 until 1867 when it was nominally independent under Khedives. The British occupation in 1882 marked the beginning of modern Egyptian history until its independence in 1922.
Geography
Egypt's geography is dominated by the Nile River and its fertile valley, which contrasts with the surrounding desert. The Nile, the longest river in the world, has been the lifeblood of Egypt, supporting agriculture and civilization for millennia. The Suez Canal, opened in 1869, links the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea, providing a crucial maritime trade route.
Culture
- Religion: The majority of Egyptians are Muslims, with a significant Coptic Christian minority.
- Language: The official language is Arabic, though English and French are also widely understood, especially in business and tourism.
- Art and Architecture: Egyptian art has influenced much of the world's art, particularly in architecture with its use of obelisks, pyramids, and temples. Modern Egyptian culture has also contributed to cinema and literature.
Economy
Egypt has a mixed economy with agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and services playing significant roles. Key economic issues include:
- Dependence on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of cotton, rice, and wheat.
- Tourism, which is a major source of foreign currency due to its rich historical sites.
- Strategic importance due to the Suez Canal, which generates significant revenue through transit fees.
Politics
Egypt has been a republic since 1953. It has seen various political changes, including the Arab Spring in 2011, which led to the ousting of President Hosni Mubarak. The current political landscape is dominated by the military, with Abdel Fattah el-Sisi as President since 2014.
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