Iraq Trivia: How Well Do You Know Its History and Culture?

The Tigris and Euphrates rivers are the two famous rivers that flow through Iraq. These rivers have played a significant role in the development of ancient civilizations in the region, providing water for agriculture and transportation. The Tigris and Euphrates are known as the "cradle of civilization" due to their importance in the history of human settlement and development.

Ibrahim Al-Jaafari was named Prime Minister of Iraq in 2005. He was a prominent figure in Iraqi politics and a member of the Islamic Dawa Party. Al-Jaafari's appointment as Prime Minister came after the country's first democratic elections following the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime. During his tenure, he faced challenges such as sectarian violence and political instability, but he also worked towards rebuilding the country and establishing a new government.

Iran and Iraq fought over the Shat Al-Arab Waterway because it is a strategically important waterway that serves as the main channel for maritime trade between the two countries. Control over this waterway would provide the controlling country with economic and military advantages, making it a point of contention between Iran and Iraq.

Turkey borders Iraq on the north. This is because Turkey is located to the north of Iraq, sharing a border that spans approximately 350 miles. The two countries have a long history of interactions and trade due to their geographical proximity.

The Iran-Iraq war lasted from 1980 to 1988, making it one of the longest and deadliest conflicts in the 20th century. The war began when Iraq invaded Iran, leading to eight years of intense fighting that resulted in hundreds of thousands of casualties and significant economic and social devastation for both countries. The conflict finally ended in 1988 with a ceasefire agreement, but the effects of the war continue to impact the region to this day.

Basra is located in the southern region of Iraq. It is situated near the Persian Gulf and is one of the country's major ports. The city's strategic location has made it an important center for trade and commerce throughout history.

Paul Wolfowitz was at the Al-Rasheed hotel when it was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade.

Iraq was granted independence from British rule in 1932. After years of British control following World War I, Iraq finally gained its independence in 1932, becoming a sovereign nation. This marked a significant milestone in Iraq's history as it transitioned from being a British mandate to an independent state.

Free elections were held in Iraq on January 30, 2005, as part of the country's transition to democracy following the overthrow of Saddam Hussein's regime. This marked a significant milestone in Iraq's political development and allowed Iraqi citizens to participate in choosing their leaders through a democratic process.

President Bush landed on the U.S.S. Abraham in May 2003 and declared "Mission accomplished" in Iraq. This event marked the end of major combat operations in Iraq and was intended to signify a turning point in the conflict. However, the mission was far from over, and the declaration was later criticized as premature as the Iraq War continued for many years after.

Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Husaini Sistani was born in Iran because he belongs to the Iranian Shia community and holds Iranian citizenship. He is one of the most influential Shia clerics in the world and has a significant following in Iraq and beyond. Born in Mashhad, Iran, he later moved to Najaf, Iraq, where he currently resides and holds religious authority.