SPOTLIGHT ON IRAQ
Background:
Many of IRWP’s students come from Iraq. Iraq is home to a diverse population and has a rich cultural history. Iraq is largely a desert country, with mountainous regions along the borders with Iran and Turkey. Some of our students come from Kurdistan, a northern region of Iraq that has been semi -autonomous since 1991.
Modern Iraq is located in an area that is often considered the home of the earliest civilization, Mesopotamia (or Sumer). The settlements and the culture that arose by 4000 BC were supported by the rich soil of the flood plains of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. The Sumerians developed a written form of communications, allowing advances in agriculture, mathematics, and literature. Over time there was a series of political empires that controlled the fertile Iraqi region. One of these was King Hammurabi’s Babylonian empire. Hammurabi’s legal code is well known, and remains cited for the idea that the punishment should fit the crime- “an eye for an eye,” for example. In 1533 the area of Iraq is conquered by the Ottoman Empire. Iraq remained under Ottoman control until they lost power in World War I.
The British assumed colonial control over Iraq following the War until 1932. The Monarchy maintained a close alliance with the British until it was overthrown in 1958. Iraq enters a period of political uncertainty. Saddam Hussein rose to power in 1979, where he remained until British and American troops invaded the country and toppled the regime in 2003.
The Iraqi population is approximately 15% Arab, 20% Kurdish, and then 5% other populations. Both Arabic and Kurdish are official languages. About 97% of the country is Muslim, with about 60-65% adhering to Shia Islam and 35% to Sunni Islam). There is a small Christian population, but the numbers are uncertain because of population movement during and after the fall of Saddam Hussein.
Oil is the major source of income for the country, providing more than 90% of government revenue. As the country continues to recover from war and work on development, creating a stable infrastructure and attracting foreign investment are two key goals.
Some traditions from Iraq:
Iraqi traditions put a strong emphasis on the family. They also enjoy extended gatherings with family, often with elaborate food, music, and traditional dancing.
Guests are valued in Iraqi culture, and they are treated with the highest respect. As a guest, it is often expected that you will remove your shoes before entering a home. Traditionally, meals are often served on the floor, on mats. Diners sit cross legged or kneel, and make sure that their feet do not touch the food mat. Eating and drinking is always done with the right hand.
Iraq kitchens are home to a delicious range of Middle Eastern food. Dolma (vine or vegetable leaves suffed with meat, rice and spices) and kebabs (pieces of meat marinated and grilled on skewers) are two favorites. Meals usually begin with mezza, a selection of appetizers, small dishes or salads. Main dishes can include meat, rice dishes, soups and stews, legumes, and vegetables. Pastries are often served as well. Coffee and tea (both very sweet) are also served.
Images of Ancient Sites:
For some stunning pictures of Iraq’s ancient sites and a candid discussion of the effects of Saddam Hussein’s reign as well as the American military actions in Iraq on those sites, visit: http://atwar.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/01/02/a-tour-of-iraqs-ancient-sites/