Why The Middle East Is So Important

Once upon a time knowledge of the world was limited. Three continents - Asia, Africa and Europe - were surrounded by the World Ocean. Beyond which lay things God could only know.

In this world, ‘World Trade’ went through the middle. Travelling through the Middle East, along the Silk Road and upon the inner seas.

Consequently, the middle areas of the map were wealthy and vibrant, and the places facing this middle, such as Venice, vibrant and wealthy in turn.

[It’s no coincidence that some of the major religions of the world began in this middle area - given it was the economic melting pot of world culture.]

But then, the map expanded. Hello, Columbus. Now the World Ocean could be traversed - and far-flung places could be reached in ways that avoided the middle.

Meaning places facing outwards, onto the World Ocean, were suddenly in a position to become vibrant and wealthy.

Yes, Engeland we’re looking at you.

And so, for a time, the middle became less important. But then, something French happened. The Suez Canal was built. This made a single sea voyage through the middle possible. Shortcutting the sea-route that went around the outside.

That, plus oil, and we find ourselves where we are today.