The Middle East

The Middle East is a region of Asia that is bordered by Asia to the east, Europe to the northwest, Africa to the southwest, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. Parts of Africa (primarily Egypt and Sudan) are sometimes considered part of the Middle East as well. Many of today's countries of the Middle East were formed from the partitioning of the Ottoman Empire.

Economically, the Middle East is known for its vast oil reserves. It is also known as the home of three major world religions: Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. Because of its economic, religious, and geographical location, the Middle East has been at the center of many world issues and political affairs.