Fact 1: The Cradle of Civilization
Did you know that Iraq is often referred to as the "Cradle of Civilization"? Why, you ask? The land that is now Iraq was part of Mesopotamia, an extremely advanced civilization that formed around 3300 BC. This civilization was renowned for making significant strides in the fields of writing, mathematics, astronomy, and law.
Fact 2: The Word 'Iraq'
Historically, 'Iraq' in Arabic refers to the region in the south of the modern-day state, which is lower Mesopotamia. This land is flat and fertile and historically was known as 'Iraq-Arabic'. It only came to refer to the whole country in the early 20th century.
Fact 3: Iraq has a Birthday
Unlike many other countries, Iraq has a distinct "birthday." Iraq was created on October 3,1922, which was when the League of Nations (the precursor to the United Nations) awarded Britain with a mandate over Iraq after World War I. The mandate was just a rule over the country for fifteen years, after which Iraq gained independence.
Fact 4: A Towering Achievement
One of the world’s first ever architectural wonders known as the Ziggurat of Ur, resided in what is now known as Iraq. Constructed during the Early Bronze Age (21st century BC), the structure was intended to bring temples closer to the heavens and was dedicated to the moon god Nanna.
Fact 5: Iraq was part of the Ottoman Empire
Before it became a country of its own, Iraq was part of the Ottoman Empire. This powerful state was based in present-day Turkey and lasted from 1299 to 1922, playing a significant role in shaping the modern Middle East.
Fact 6: Iraq is a major oil producer
One of Iraq's major industries is oil production. The country has the world's fifth largest proven oil reserves with an estimated 143 billion barrels. Oil exports provide a significant part of Iraq's economy.
Fact 7: Iraq's Marsh Arab Culture
The Marsh Arabs, known in Arabic as the Ma'dan, live in the marshlands of southern Iraq and have a unique, millennia-old culture based around the marshes' ecosystems. They built their homes from reeds, travelled by boat, and thrived off fishing and water buffalo herding.
Fact 8: The National Bird is a Chukar Partridge
You wouldn't be blamed for not knowing what a Chukar Partridge is. This small bird is native to specific parts of the Middle East and happens to be Iraq's national bird. They're known for having a distinct black band running across their eyes and down the side of their throats.
Fact 9: Three UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Iraq is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Hatra, Ashur and the Archaeological City of Samarra. These places are of significant cultural and historical value and offer a window into the country's rich and deep history.
Fact 10: The Influence of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers
Two of Iraq's most important physical features are the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, which are significant to its agriculture and economy. The land between these rivers is called Mesopotamia, translating to "between rivers", gave birth to the earliest known civilization.
Fact 11: Date Palm Trees are Highly Valued
In Iraq, you will find numerous date palm trees, a major resource for agriculture. They are valued not only for their sweet fruit but also for the shade they offer and for their versatile use in making furniture, baskets, and other goods.
Fact 12: They have a Different Weekend
In Iraq, the workweek runs from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday serving as the weekend. This is common in many Middle Eastern countries and is based on Islamic tradition.
Fact 13: The Official Languages are Arabic and Kurdish
While the vast majority of Iraq's population speaks Arabic, a substantial minority in the northern part of the country speaks Kurdish. Both Arabic and Kurdish are recognized as official languages in Iraq.
Fact 14: Mudhifs – Traditional Reed Houses
Unique to Iraq's marshlands, Mudhifs are traditional guesthouses woven entirely from reeds. These were social hubs of the Marsh Arab communities, being the venues for weddings and tribal meetings.
Fact 15: High Population of Young People
Iraq has a predominantly youthful population, with about 60% of the total population being under the age of 24. This is comparatively high when you consider that the same age group makes up around a third of the population in the United States.
Fact 16: Iraq's Unique Wildlife
Iraq is home to a variety of unique wildlife species such as the Persian fallow deer, the northern bald ibis, and the Euphrates softshell turtle. Unfortunately, many of these species are listed as endangered due to development and warfare.
Fact 17: A Line in the Sand
A large portion of western Iraq is covered by desert, the Syrian Desert, which is among the largest in the world. Interestingly, these deserts have been used as movie stand-ins for other Middle Eastern locations due to their vast and uninhabited nature.
Fact 18: Ancient System of Writing
The first known system of writing, cuneiform script, was developed in ancient Mesopotamia. It began as a system of pictographs and later evolved to represent sounds and ideas rather than objects.
Fact 19: The First known Laws
The Code of Hammurabi, one of the oldest deciphered writings of significant length in the world, originated in ancient Mesopotamia. This code is often recognized as the first written laws of civilization.
Fact 20: The Diverse Cuisine
Last but not least, Iraq’s diverse and flavorful cuisine is widely appreciated. It has been influenced by various cultures over the centuries including Persian, Arab, and Ottoman Turkic. The dishes commonly include grains such as rice and wheat, poultry, beef, lamb, and a variety of spices. The national dish, Masgouf, is a grilled carp typically seasoned with turmeric and tamarind.