North africa

Definition

A region comprising countries along Africa's Mediterranean coast and the Sahara Desert, including Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco. Historically a crossroads between sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, it has been shaped by ancient civilizations, Islamic culture, and European colonialism.

Examples

  • Ancient Egypt's pyramids and contributions to early civilization
  • The Arab Spring protests beginning in Tunisia in 2010 and spreading across the region
  • The Suez Canal in Egypt being a critical global trade route

Related Terms

Dar al-islam Trans-saharan trade Middle east Decolonization

Study This Concept

Practice North Africa with free review games in these units:

World Geography Unit 5: Africa