Merchant and cargo ships, United Arab Emirates, 1974

Arabia Felix, known as the fortunate, has been a legendary region since classical times. Its strategic location by the Gulf facilitated the rise of the Sumerian Empire and attracted invasions from Persia, Greece, and Rome. The region's geography, with its desert and fresh water springs, supported trade and small towns. The discovery of major oil reserves transformed the area, leading to rapid development and modernization across the Arabian Peninsula, from Oman to Bahrain.

What is the modern name for the large inlet of sea that separated Arabia Felix from ancient Persia?

• The Arabian Sea

• The Mediterranean Sea

• The Gulf

• The Red Sea

Which ancient civilization had its capital at Ur, located in the region discussed?

• The Sumerian Empire

• The Persian Empire

• The Roman Empire

• The Egyptian Empire

Which European powers fought over the Gulf region to control trade routes to the Far East?

• American, Canadian, and Mexican

• German, Russian, and Ottoman

• Portuguese, Dutch, and British

• Spanish, French, and Italian

What natural resource discovery led to the rapid development of the Arabian Peninsula?

• Gold

• Oil

• Coal

• Natural Gas

Which countries are mentioned as experiencing social progress due to newfound resources?

• Saudi Arabia and Yemen

• Oman and Dubai

• Jordan and Lebanon

• Iran and Iraq