While some types of Islamic art, such as Qur'an manuscripts, mosque lamps or carved wooden minbars (pulpits), are directly concerned with the faith and practice of Islam, the majority of objects considered to be Islamic art are called so simply because they were made in societies where Islam was the dominant religion.

The Middle East is the common term for a region consisting of countries in Southwest Asia and, usually, at least part of North Africa. It is a relatively new term now widespread both inside and outside the region. While this essay mainly focuses on geography, it also discusses some stereotypes and realities.

Discover the great diversity of the nearly one and a half billion people who belong to the community of Muslims. They are different--just like us!

When I first discovered Google Earth, I did what most people do—I looked up my house, my kids’ school, and my commute, and toured the Eiffel Tower and the Grand Canyon and the Taj Mahal and the Great Wall. But I quickly realized that beyond the ultra-cool factor, Google Earth is an extraordinary tool for taking kids on more meaningful adventures through geography, cultures, history, and current events.

In this article the influential Moroccan historian, Mohamed El Mansour, provides a history of the role of the United States in the Middle East and North Africa. The essay provides and excellent introductory survey, beginning with the recognition of the young American republic by Morocco in the 19th century through recent events.