Cultural Characteristics of Northern Africa Answers

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: People in North Africa have common characteristics with those in the Middle East, including a shared religion, ancestry, and history. People speak Arabic, just as they do in the Middle East and more than 90% practice Islam. Many people are of Arab descent. This ocurred because in the 600s, Muslim armies invaded and conquered North Africa. Traders soon followed, and these people introduced Arabic and Islam to the region. Many Middle Easterners settled in the region, and over time, many people trace their ancestry to Arab peoples. Many others are of mixed Arab-Berber descent.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Tunisia, unlike many other Muslim countries in North Africa and the Middle East, actively promotes the legal and social status of women. Traditional dress is discouraged, and women typically wear Western-style clothing. Women can own businesses and property and apply for their own passports. Polygamy is outlawed in Tunisia, and parents are required to send girls to school. About half of all university students are women. As in many Muslim countries, traditional ways are more likely to be practiced in rural areas.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: People in North Africa have common characteristics, including a shared religion, ancestry, and history. This area is isolated from southern Africa by the Sahara. As a result, the culture of North Africa has more in common with the Middle East than with the rest of Africa. People speak Arabic and practice Islam, and many are of Arab descent. Countries in this region include: Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, and the territory of Western Sahara.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: North Africa has an average standard of living compared to the rest of the world, and a much higher standard of living than countries in sub-Saharan Africa. This is mainly due to oil income. Libya has the highest ranking (53) and Morocco the lowest (114). Life expectancy is average in North Africa. Many countries have rapidly growing, young populations, which can cause problems like unemployment. Literacy rates are rising. Despite this, most areas have very high poverty rates.