Lebanon
Lebanon, officially known as the Lebanese Republic, is a country located in the Levant region of the Middle East. It is bordered by Syria to the north and east, Israel to the south, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. Here is a detailed overview:
Geography
- Lebanon Mountains: A mountain range that runs parallel to the coast, influencing the country's climate and topography.
- Beirut: The capital and largest city, known for its vibrant culture, history, and as a financial hub.
- Beqaa Valley: A fertile valley between the Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon Mountains, known for agriculture and viticulture.
History
- Ancient History: Home to the ancient city of Byblos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Lebanon was part of several ancient empires, including the Phoenician Civilization, Assyrian Empire, and Roman Empire.
- Medieval Period: Was under the control of various powers like the Byzantine Empire, Crusader States, and later the Ottoman Empire.
- Modern History:
- French Mandate: After World War I, Lebanon was administered under the French mandate until its independence in 1943.
- Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990): A devastating conflict involving various factions, with significant external intervention.
- 2006 Lebanon War: Conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, a Shia Islamist political party and militant group.
- Recent Developments: Lebanon has faced economic crises, political instability, and the effects of the Syrian Civil War with an influx of refugees.
Culture
- Religion: Predominantly Islam and Christianity, with a diverse population including Sunni, Shia, Druze, Maronite, Greek Orthodox, and other Christian denominations.
- Language: Arabic is the official language, with French and English widely spoken due to historical influences.
- Cuisine: Known for dishes like Hummus, Tabbouleh, and Kibbeh.
- Music: Traditional instruments like the Oud and Darbuka are integral to Lebanese music.
Economy
- Tourism: Lebanon's rich history, scenic landscapes, and vibrant nightlife make it a popular destination despite periods of instability.
- Finance: Beirut has been known as the financial center of the Middle East, although economic stability has been a challenge.
- Remittances: A significant portion of the economy relies on remittances from the Lebanese diaspora.
Politics
- Confessional System: The political system is based on a power-sharing arrangement among different religious communities.
- Current Issues: Political instability, corruption, and economic crises have been persistent challenges.
External Links
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