Country projectDeaysha

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By: Deaysha Hines

Map

Description Size: 266,000 sq km Climate: dry, desert, hot, little rain,

and heavy dew and fog due to cold air currents.

Location: North Africa, between Mauritania and Morocco, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean.

Population:491,519

Geographic features Land Regions: El Aaiun, Laâyoune, Dakhla, Es

Semara, and Boujdour. Rivers: Saguia el-Hamra, Oued el Khatt, Oued

Assaq Lakes: Sebkhet Aghzoumal Oceans: North Atlantic Ocean Indigenous Fauna: camels, sheep, goats (kept by

nomads); Indigenous Flora: fruits and vegetables (grown in

the few oases); Special Points of Interest: Military Fortress and

Catholic Church in Dakhla created by the Spanish.

Vacation Tour: Egypt Desert Tours

History Early History: Originally a Spanish colony, but was relinquished

in 1975. Morocco annexed the northern two-thirds of Western Sahara (formerly Spanish Sahara) in 1976 and claimed the rest of the territory in 1979, following Mauritania's withdrawal. A guerrilla war with the Polisario Front contesting Morocco's sovereignty ended in a 1991 UN-brokered cease-fire; a UN-organized referendum on the territory's final status has been repeatedly postponed. The UN since 2007 has sponsored intermittent talks between representatives of the Government of Morocco and the Polisario Front to negotiate the status of Western Sahara. Morocco has put forward an autonomy proposal for the territory, which would allow for some local administration while maintaining Moroccan sovereignty. The Polisario, with Algeria's support, demands a popular referendum that includes the option of independence.

Impact on the World: This is the Africa’s last colony. This territorial disagreement has been going on since 1963.

Current Events: More people trying to help Western Sahara gain its independence

Political Type of Government: Disputed Sovereignty. Non Self-governed. No

official government because it isn’t a country yet, Morocco believes it is apart

of its country and the Polisario Front thinks it should be its own country.

Economy Industry: Fishing, phosphate mining, and

pastoral nomadism, handicrafts Exports: Phosphates, Fish, and Animals Imports: Food, fuel for fishing fleets Economic Status: Controlled by the

Moroccan government. Major Trade Partners: Morocco claims and

administers Western Sahara, so trade partners are included in overall Moroccan accounts.

Currency: Moroccan Dirham, Sahrawi Peseta Natural Resources: Phosphates and iron ore.

Saharawi Living Standard of Living: Very Low Literacy:50% of the population Clothing: African and according to Muslim

customs. Daraa robe and mefhla headscarf Internet Usage: 1 Internet service provider The Western Sahara conflict has led to

severe human rights abuses. Dangers: High terrorism threat, Sand,

Police and Army officers everywhere, “No Man’s Land” towards Mauritanian border, land mines, thieves, scam artists, scorpions, and stay in the traveler vicinity.

Cultural Traditions: Saharawi tea ceremony, Jewelry for spiritual

protection, head of Fatima to ward off evil and increase fertility, veil, and pilgrimage box.

Customs: Hospitality rituals Religions: Muslim (99.9%), Others (0.1%) Foods: Fish, Juices, traditional mint tea Music and Dance: African Languages: Hassaniya and Moroccan Arabic, Spanish,

French, Berber Ethnicities: Arab, Berber National Holidays Observed: New Year's Day – January

1, Independence Manifesto Day – January 11, Labor Day – May 1, Throne Day – July 30, Oued Ed-Dahab Day – August 14, Revolution Day – August 20, Green March Day – November 6, Independence Day – November 18

Sports events Marathon des Sables: 146-mile race

in the Sahara. Six stages over 6 days. Self-sufficient for food, clothing, first aid, map, compass etc. Only water is given by organizers.

Top Participants: James Cracknell, Hal Stockley,Vijay Ahuja, Paul Dickens, and Jen Salter.

Results: James Cracknell wins.

Conclusion Summary: A mainly desert territory

in north-west Africa, Western Sahara is the subject of a decades-long dispute between Morocco and the Algerian-backed Polisario Front.

What I learned: I learned that we are very fortunate as a country to be so established like we are and have such freedom as people unlike the people of Western Sahara that cant even say they live in a country.

Works Cited "BBC News - Regions and territories: Western Sahara." BBC News - Home. N.p., n.d. Web. 26

Mar. 2011. <http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa "Marathon des Sables Introduction." Marathon des Sables Introduction. N.p., n.d.

Web. 24 Mar. 2011. <http://www.saharamarathon.co. Pieter11. "Western Sahara Warnings or Dangers - Travel Safety Tips -

VirtualTourist." Travel Guides, Hotel Reviews, Photos, Forums, Deals - VirtualTourist.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Mar. 2011. <http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Africa/Western_Sahara/Warnings_or_Dangers-Western_Sahara-TG-C-1.html>.

"Traditions « Sandblast." Sandblast. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Mar. 2011. <http://www.sandblast-arts.org/saharawis/culture-and-society/traditions>.

"Western Sahara." CIA - The World Factbook. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Mar. 2011. <https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/wi.html>.

"Western Sahara Facts and Figures." Africa.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.africa.com/western-sahara/facts>.

"Western Sahara: General Data." Populstat.info. N.p., n.d. Web. 15 Mar. 2011. <http://www.populstat.info/Africa

"Western Sahara (proposed state): History, Geography, Government, and Culture — FactMonster.com." Fact Monster: Online Almanac, Dictionary, Encyclopedia, and Homework Help — FactMonster.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Mar. 2011. <http://www.factmonster.com/ipka

"Western Sahara travel advice." British Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) Home. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Mar. 2011. <http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/travel-advice-by-country/middle-east-north-africa/western-sahara>.

Wikipedia contributors. "Culture of Western Sahara." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 12 Nov. 2010. Web. 25 Mar. 2011.

MA

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By: Deaysha Hines

DescriptionSize: 1128 Square KilometersClimate: tropical; moderated by trade winds; rainy season (June to October); vulnerable to devastating cyclones (hurricanes) every eight years on average; Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and TobagoPopulation: 397,730

Geographic Features Land Regions: Fort-de-France, Le Lamentin, Le Robert, Sainte-Marie, and

Schoelcher. Rivers: Grande Rivière, Rivière Roche, Rivière Capot, Rivière Claire, Rivière

Falaise, Rivière du Lorrain, Rivière du Galion, Rivière de François, Rivière Pilote, Rivière Saléem, Lézarde Rivière, Rivière Rosalie, Rivière Madame, Rivière Fond Bourlet, Rivière du Carbet, Rivière Sèche, Rivière Roxelane, Rivière des Pères, Rivière Blanche, and Rivière de l' Anse Céron.

Oceans: Atlantic Ocean Indigenous Fauna: Pacific pilot whale, Schwartz's myotis, Greater bulldog

bat, Davy's naked-backed bat, Little yellow-shouldered bat, Brazilian free-tailed bat, Tree bat, Jamaican fruit-eating bat, Antillean fruit-eating bat, Insular single leaf bat, Antillean giant rice rat, and American manatee.

Indigenous Flora: pineapples, avocados, bananas, flowers, vegetables, sugarcane

Special Points of Interest: Les Salines, Saint-Pierre, La Savane, Les Ombrages, Musée de la Pagerie

Vacation Tour: Fort-de-France, Trois-Îlets, Parc des Floralies, Pointe du Bout, Le Diamant , Les Anses d’Arlets, Diamond Rock, Musée Volcanologique, St James Distillery at Sainte-Marie, Musée du Rhum, Rhum Clement Domaine Acajou, Fonds Saint-Jacques with its Musée du Père Labat

Volcano: Mt. Pelée

History Early History: Martinique, a mountainous island

lying in the Lesser Antilles about 300 mi (483 km) northeast of Venezuela, was probably explored by Columbus in 1502 and was taken for France in 1635. Martinique became a domain of the French crown in 1674. It became an overseas department of France in 1946.

Impact on World: Battle of Martinique -1779 Current Events: Martinique named 'Best

Caribbean Destination, New chairman appointed of Martinique Tourism Authority, Whale watching, Accused pedophile priest dies in Martinique

Political Type of Government: Overseas Department of France Chief of state: President Jacques CHIRAC of France

(since 17 May 1995); Prefect Yves DASSONVILLE (since 14 January 2004); note - took office 8 February 2004 head of government: President of the General Council Claude LISE (since 22 March 1992); President of the Regional Council Alfred MARIE-JEANNE (since NA March 1998)

Cabinet: NA Elections: French president elected by popular vote for

a five-year term; prefect appointed by the French president on the advice of the French Ministry of Interior; the presidents of the General and Regional Councils are elected by the members of those councils

Economy Industry: construction, rum, cement, oil

refining, sugar, tourism. Natural Resources: coastal scenery and

beaches, cultivable land. Exports: refined petroleum products,

bananas, rum, pineapples (2001 est.). Imports: petroleum products, crude oil,

foodstuffs, construction materials, vehicles, clothing and other consumer goods.

Economic Status: Major Trade Partners: France, Guadeloupe,

Venezuela, Germany, Italy, U.S. (2004). Monetary unit: Euro

Daily Life Standard of Living: higher standard of

living than most other Caribbean countries from their high GDP per capita of $24,118

Literacy: 97.7% (2003 est.) Clothing: Jewelry, Madras, Caribbean dress Internet Users: 5,000 (2000). Ethnicity/race: African and African-white-

Indian mixture 90%, white 5%, East Indian, Lebanese, Chinese less than 5%

Languages: French, Creole patois

Cultural Traditions: Making jewelry and handicrafts, the Carnival Customs: Rooster, mongoose, and snake fighting, French and Creole customs Religions: Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant 10.5%, Muslim 0.5%, Hindu 0.5%, other 3.5%

(1997) Foods: French and Creole cooking, and hot pepper, locally grown foods and vegetables,

seafood, shellfish, meat, Boudin, matoutou , acras, gumbo, and vegetable soup with crab or salted meat ( calalou ), colombo (a mutton, goat, or chicken curry), ti-punch (straight rum with a twist of lemon sweetened with cane sugar), planteur (fruit juice and rum) Shrubb (rum with marinated orange or tangerine rinds).

Art : Painting and sculpture are two very important sections of Martinique art. Besides these, in some regions of the country dolls and various handicrafts are made. People make these by seashells and sometimes with straws.

Culture : Martinique has gradually developed a very rich and diverse culture in the presence of the various religions, tribes, castes and races. French influence is heavily perceived in its culture. Throughout the year several programs of art, music and dance can be seen in various regions of the country. Competitions including bicycle race, sailboat race etc are also held in some particular regions. Theater, dance and music are the three very important aspects of Martinique culture. To talk about the festivals of the country, Carnival is a very big festival.

Music: Music is a very appreciated art form in Martinique. Among the various forms of music, Zouk is very common in the country. Music of this country is highly influenced by West Indian Creole traditions. The instruments that are primarily used are synthesizers, digital samplers, and drum machines etc.

Sports

There is no national sporting event. However sports is a big part of everyday life in Martinique. Sports include: golf, tennis, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, canyoning, flying, quad and buggy racing, fishing, surfing, water skiing, jet skiing, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, sailing and yachting.

Conclusion Summary: Martinique is a country where

certain races, cultures, and ways of life are all beautifully blended together and it shows in the harmony and acceptance of the people.

Martinique is known as “the Island of Flowers”. It is France with a nationally unifying Creole twist.

Works Cited "Attractions in Martinique - Things to Visit and to See in Martinique." PlacesOnLine - World travel

guide, tourist information, hotel, travel and vacations. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.placesonline.com/central

"Choosing a Destination: Martinique | caribbean-guide.info." Caribbean Guide - Culture, History, Vacations, Travel, and More | caribbean-guide.info. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://caribbean-guide.info/why.not.go/martinique/>.

"Climate information for Martinique - Climate Zone." Climates of the world - Climate Zone. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.climate-zone.com/climate/martinique/>.

"Culture and traditions Martinique - All you need to have a great time away." Cheap Flights | Cheap Flights Comparison | Cheap Holidays | Travel Deals | Easy Voyage. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.easyvoyage.co.uk/

"Culture of Martinique - traditional, history, people, women, beliefs, food, customs, family, social." Countries and Their Cultures. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.everyculture.com/Ma-Ni/Martinique.html>.

" Google Image Result for http://www.jmu.edu/international/images/martinique_map_002.gif." Google. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2011. <http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.jmu.edu/international

"Martinique, Accused pedophile priest dies in Martinique | Latin America Current Events & News." Home | Latin America Current Events & News. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://latinamericacurrentevents.com/martinique-accused-pedophile-priest-dies-martinique/>.

"Martinique Government Information." Expedited Visas, Visa Applications, Rush Passport, Passports, Travel. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.traveldocs.com/mq

"Martinique: History, Geography, Government, and Culture — FactMonster.com." Fact Monster: Online Almanac, Dictionary, Encyclopedia, and Homework Help — FactMonster.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 Mar. 2011. <http://www.factmonster.com/ipka

"Martinique Information, Martinique Geography." World Map, Map of the World. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.mapsofworld.com/country-profile/martinique-information-geography-and-history.html>.

"Martinique - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia." Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martinique

AN

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DA By: Deaysha Hines

Map

DescriptionSize:442.6 sq km (Antigua 280 sq

km; Barbuda 161 sq km)Climate: tropical maritime; little seasonal temperature variationLocation: Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east-southeast of Puerto RicoPopulation:87,884 (July 2011 est.)

Geographic Features Land Regions: St. John's, English Harbour, Codrington Streams: Ayers Creek, Cooks Creek, Fitches Creek Ocean: Atlantic Ocean Indigenous Fauna: Livestock Indigenous Flora: cotton, fruits, vegetables, bananas,

coconuts, cucumbers, mangoes, sugarcane. Special Points of Interest: Bethesda Tamarind Tree , Betty's

Hope Sugar Plantation , Carpenters Rock Trail, Christian Valley Agricultural Station , Devils Bridge , Dockyard Museum , English Harbour , Environmental Awareness Group (Eag) , Hikes From Wallings Dam , Jones Valley Trail

Vacation Tour: Lookout Trail, Lord Nelson's Bed, Middle Ground Trail, Monks Hill And Fort George Trail , Museum Of Antigua And Barbuda, Nelsons Dockyard National Park , Potworks Reservior , Rendezvous Bay Trail , Sir Viv Richards Cricket Ground , St. John's Cathedral, Wallings Reservoir, Wyland Wall

History Early History: The Siboney were the first to inhabit the

islands of Antigua and Barbuda in 2400 B.C., but Arawak Indians populated the islands when COLUMBUS landed on his second voyage in 1493. Early settlements by the Spanish and French were succeeded by the English who formed a colony in 1667. Slavery, established to run the sugar plantations on Antigua, was abolished in 1834. The islands became an independent state within the British Commonwealth of Nations in 1981.

Impact on the World: invasion of Grenada Current Events: Sunday night in Cockburn Town, Castro

says he quit Communist Party post in 2006,Three women of J'can heritage among four honored , UN-backed tsunami warning exercise for Caribbean to be held next week, Sale of Chevron operations halted, Caribbean Resort Heads for Bankruptcy

Political Type of Government: constitutional

monarchy with a parliamentary system of government and a Commonwealth realm

Government Leaders:› chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6

February 1952); represented by Governor General Louisse LAKE-TACK (since 17 July 2007)

› head of government: Prime Minister Winston Baldwin SPENCER (since 24 March 2004)

› cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister

Economy Industry: tourism, construction, light manufacturing

(clothing, alcohol, household appliances). Exports:$84.3 million (2007 est.): petroleum

products 48%, manufactures 23%, machinery and transport equipment 17%, food and live animals 4%, other 8%.

Imports: $522.8 million (2007 est.): food and live animals, machinery and transport equipment, manufactures, chemicals, oil.

Major Trade Partners: Poland, UK, Germany, Italy, China, U.S., Singapore, Spain, Trinidad and Tobago (2006).

Natural Resources: pleasant climate fosters tourism. Monetary unit: East Caribbean dollar

Daily Life Standard of Living:

GDP- per capita (PPP): $16,500 (2010 est.) Literacy: 85.8% Clothing: Western Style clothing Internet hosts: 2,133 (2007). Internet users: 32,000 (2006). Languages: English (official), local

dialects Ethnicity: black 91%, mixed 4.4%, white

1.7%, other 2.9%

Cultural Traditions: Western and American Influence,

Antiguan Carnival Customs: Sunday at the beach, Reggae Bands

playing in the streets Religions: Christian (predominantly Anglican and

other Protestant; some Roman Catholic) Foods: Creole Dishes Music and Dance: Folk Music, Old Time Christmas

Festival, Benna, Popular Music, Carnival, Music Festival, Steelpan, And Calypso

Art Forms: Mas (street theater), theater, calypso, steel band, architecture, poetry, and fiction. Less well developed are the arts of painting, sculpture, and carving

Conclusion Antigua and Barbuda are islands that

bond together through their culture, language, and art.

Has 365 Beaches

Works Cited "Antigua and Barbuda." CIA - The World Factbook. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011.

<https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ac.html>. "Antigua and Barbuda: History, Geography, Government, and Culture —

FactMonster.com." Fact Monster: Online Almanac, Dictionary, Encyclopedia, and Homework Help — FactMonster.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 Mar. 2011. <http://www.factmonster.com/ipka

"Antigua and Barbuda News." Caribdaily.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.caribdaily.com/news/antigua-barbuda/>.

"Antigua and Barbuda: Sightseeing and Places to Visit Guide." Antigua and Barbuda Caribbean Vacation travel and tourism holiday information guide. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.antiguanice.com/v2/thingstodo.php?cat=22>.

"Culture of Antigua And Barbuda - history, traditions, women, beliefs, food, family, social, marriage, life." Countries and Their Cultures. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.everyculture.com/A-Bo/Antigua-And-Barbuda.html>.

" Google Image Result for http://www.geographicguide.net/america/pictures/antigua-barbuda.jpg." Google. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2011. <http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.geographicguide.net/america/pictures/antigua-barbuda.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www

SA

INT M

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By: Deaysha Hines

DescriptionSize:54.4 sq kmClimate: temperature averages 80-85 degrees all year long; low humidity, gentle trade winds, brief, intense rain showers; July-November is the hurricane seasonLocation: 300 km southeast of Puerto RicoPopulation: 30,615 (July 2011 est.)

French Flag is used

Geographic Features Land Regions: Philipsburg, Marigot Rivers: Paradise Ravine, Quarter’s Ravine,

Colombier Ravine, Lottery Ravine, Saint-Louis Ravine, Careta Ravine

Oceans: Atlantic Ocean Indigenous Fauna: terns, frigate birds, brown

pelicans, ospreys Indigenous Flora: cactus, bougainvillea, hibiscus,

crotons, paradise flower, poinsettia and alpinias Special Points of Interest: Fort St. Louis, The

Marigot Market, St.-Martin Museum, "On The Trail Of The Arawaks“, Marigot, Grand Case

Vacation Tour: Colombier, Paradise Peak, Mount Concordia, Terres Basses, Butter Fly Farm, Orleans, The French Quarter

History Early History: Although sighted by Christopher COLUMBUS in 1493

and claimed for Spain, it was the Dutch who occupied the island in 1631 and set about exploiting its salt deposits. The Spanish retook the island in 1633, but continued to be harassed by the Dutch. The Spanish finally relinquished Saint Martin to the French and Dutch, who divided it between themselves in 1648. Friction between the two sides caused the border to frequently fluctuate over the next two centuries, with the French eventually holding the greater portion of the island (about 57%). The cultivation of sugar cane introduced slavery to the island in the late 18th century; the practice was not abolished until 1848. The island became a free port in 1939; the tourism industry was dramatically expanded during the 1970s and 1980s. In 2003, the populace of Saint Martin voted to secede from Guadeloupe and in 2007, the northern portion of the island became a French overseas collectivity. In 2010, the Dutch portion of the island became an independent nation within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Impact on the World: Eighty Years’ War Current Events: Prime Minister Wescot opens first in a series of government

workshops regarding civil service procedures, Bar Refuses to Admit Lawyer who was found with Criminals on Two Occasions, Richardson’s appointment to Council of State approved , Armed robber loses appeal against 6-year prison termToday’s Opinion: Kicking the Facebook habit , Today’s Opinion: How to dissolve a parliament , Today’s Editorial: Bittersweet Farewells, Community Pastor’s death leads to emotional outpouring

Political Type of Government: One half (Saint

Martin) is an overseas collectivity of France and the other (Sint Maarten) is a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Government Leaders: NA - William V. Marlin (b. 1955), President Nicolas SARKOZY (since 16 May 2007), represented by Prefect Dominique LACROIX (since 21 March 2007)

Economy Industry: tourism, light industry and

manufacturing, heavy industry Exports: food Imports: crude petroleum, food,

manufactured items Major Trade Partners: Europe and the

U.S. Natural Resources: salt Currency: Florin and Euro

Daily Life

Standard of Living: › GDP – per capita (PPP): $15,500

Literacy: 95% Clothing: Western Style and Optional on

Orient Bay Internet Usage: None Ethnic Groups: Creole (mulatto), black,

Guadeloupe Mestizo (French-East Asia), white, East Indian

Languages: French (official language), English, Dutch, French Patois, Spanish, Papiamento (dialect of Netherlands Antilles)

Cultural Traditions: St. Martin’s Day, Customs: African, French, British, and

Dutch Customs and Traditions Religions: Roman Catholic, Jehovah's

Witness, Protestant, Hindu Foods: Creole Dishes Music and Dance: Calypso, merengue,

soca, zouk, and reggae

Conclusion

Saint Martin is an island split down the middle between France and the Netherlands that thrives on the culture, differences, and similarities of both of them.

Works Cited "Large St. Martin Sint Maarten map by World Atlas." World Atlas including

Geography Facts, Maps, Flags - worldatlas.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2011. <http://www.worldatlas.com/webimage

"Saint Martin." CIA - The World Factbook. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/rn.html>.

" St. Martin/Maarten News and Current Events at Caribdaily.com ." Caribbean News . N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Mar. 2011. <http://www.caribdaily.com/all/st-martin>.

"St Martin - Points of Interest." Geographia - World Travel Destinations, Culture and History Guide. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.geographia.com/st-martin/smpnt01.htm>.

"St Martin St Maarten Wildlife - National Nature Reserve of St Martin - Tourism in St Martin by the Tourist Office." ST MARTIN TOURIST OFFICE - OFFICIAL WEB SITE - vacation tourism in st martin island Caribbean. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.stmartinisland.org/destination-st-martin/wildlife-stmartin.html>.

Wikipedia contributors. "List of Sint Maarten leaders of government." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 23 Oct. 2010. Web. 27 Mar. 2011.

Wikipedia contributors. "Saint Martin." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 22 Mar. 2011. Web. 27 Mar. 2011.

"Large St. Martin Sint Maarten map by World Atlas." World Atlas including Geography Facts, Maps, Flags - worldatlas.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2011. <http://www.worldatlas.com/webimage

"Saint Martin." CIA - The World Factbook. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/rn.html>.

" St. Martin/Maarten News and Current Events at Caribdaily.com ." Caribbean News . N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Mar. 2011. <http://www.caribdaily.com/all/st-martin>.

"St Martin - Points of Interest." Geographia - World Travel Destinations, Culture and History Guide. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.geographia.com/st-martin/smpnt01.htm>.

"St Martin St Maarten Wildlife - National Nature Reserve of St Martin - Tourism in St Martin by the Tourist Office." ST MARTIN TOURIST OFFICE - OFFICIAL WEB SITE - vacation tourism in st martin island Caribbean. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.stmartinisland.org/destination-st-martin/wildlife-stmartin.html>.

Wikipedia contributors. "List of Sint Maarten leaders of government." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 23 Oct. 2010. Web. 27 Mar. 2011.

Wikipedia contributors. "Saint Martin." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 22 Mar. 2011. Web. 27 Mar. 2011.

ISR

AEL

By: Deaysha Hines

DescriptionSize: 20,770 sq kmClimate: temperate; hot and dry in southern and eastern desert areasLocation: Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and LebanonPopulation:7,473,052 (July 2010 est.)

Geographic Features Land Regions: Jerusalem, Nazareth, Nablus Rivers: Nahal Ha’Arava Lakes: Sea of Galilee, Hula Valley, Dead Sea Seas: Meditteranean and Red Seas Indigenous Fauna: mountain gazelles, wild boar,

foxes, jungle cats, Nubian ibex, leopards, hyenas, jackals, wolves, wild horses, wild asses, badgers, hippopotamus, rhinoceros, warthog

Indigenous flora: citrus, vegetables, cotton; beef, poultry, dairy products.

Special Points of Interest: Cave of the Patriarchs, The Dead Sea, Masada, Meron

Vacation Tour: Rachel’s Tomb, Shechem, Tiberias, The Western Wall

History Early History: Following World War II, the British withdrew from their mandate of Palestine,

and the UN partitioned the area into Arab and Jewish states, an arrangement rejected by the Arabs. Subsequently, the Israelis defeated the Arabs in a series of wars without ending the deep tensions between the two sides. The territories Israel occupied since the 1967 war are not included in the Israel country profile, unless otherwise noted. On 25 April 1982, Israel withdrew from the Sinai pursuant to the 1979 Israel-Egypt Peace Treaty. In keeping with the framework established at the Madrid Conference in October 1991, bilateral negotiations were conducted between Israel and Palestinian representatives and Syria to achieve a permanent settlement. Israel and Palestinian officials signed on 13 September 1993 a Declaration of Principles (also known as the "Oslo Accords") guiding an interim period of Palestinian self-rule. Outstanding territorial and other disputes with Jordan were resolved in the 26 October 1994 Israel-Jordan Treaty of Peace. In addition, on 25 May 2000, Israel withdrew unilaterally from southern Lebanon, which it had occupied since 1982. In April 2003, US President BUSH, working in conjunction with the EU, UN, and Russia - the "Quartet" - took the lead in laying out a roadmap to a final settlement of the conflict by 2005, based on reciprocal steps by the two parties leading to two states, Israel and a democratic Palestine. However, progress toward a permanent status agreement was undermined by Israeli-Palestinian violence between September 2003 and February 2005. In the summer of 2005, Israel unilaterally disengaged from the Gaza Strip, evacuating settlers and its military while retaining control over most points of entry into the Gaza Strip. The election of HAMAS to head the Palestinian Legislative Council froze relations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA). Ehud OLMERT became prime minister in March 2006 and presided over a 34-day conflict with Hizballah in Lebanon in June-August 2006 and a 23-day conflict with HAMAS in the Gaza Strip during December 2008 and January 2009. OLMERT, who in June 2007 resumed talks with PA President Mahmoud ABBAS, resigned in September 2008. Prime Minister Binyamin NETANYAHU formed a coalition in March 2009 following a February 2009 general election. Direct talks launched in September 2010 collapsed following the expiration of Israel's 10-month partial settlement construction moratorium in the West Bank. Diplomatic initiatives to revive the negotiations through proximity talks began at the end of 2010.

Impact on the World: World’s First country made for Jews. Other countries want the land that they are on but don’t disturb Israel too much because they have a superior military power that could hurt the land they already have.

Current Events Libyan Rebels Claim They Took Sirte, Libyan Television Shows Qaddafi in

Tripoli, Jordan PM Blames Muslim Brotherhood, Itamar Youths Strengthen

Jerusalem ,Leaders Express Solidarity with Assad

Political Type of Government: Parliamentary

Democracy Government Leader: Shimon Peres 15 Jul

2007 - Kadima

Economy Industry: high-technology projects (including aviation,

communications, computer-aided design and manufactures, medical electronics, fiber optics), wood and paper products, potash and phosphates, food, beverages, and tobacco, caustic soda, cement, construction, metals products, chemical products, plastics, diamond cutting, textiles, footwear.

Exports:$44.3 billion (2009 est.): machinery and equipment, software, cut diamonds, agricultural products, chemicals, textiles and apparel.

Imports:$47.4 billion (2009 est.): raw materials, military equipment, investment goods, rough diamonds, fuels, grain, consumer goods

Major Trade Partners: U.S., Belgium, Hong Kong, Germany, Switzerland, UK, China (2006).

Trade Associations: Association of America-Israel Chambers of Commerce

Sanctions: There are currently no sanctions on Israel but a lot of countries want to put sanctions on it.

Natural resources: timber, potash, copper ore, natural gas, phosphate rock, magnesium bromide, clays, sand.

Daily Life Standard of Living

› GDP per Capita (PPP): $29,500 (2010 est.) Literacy: 97% (2004 est.) Clothing: Western and European Style

clothing. Internet hosts: 671,030 (2007). Internet users: 1.899 million (2006). Languages: Hebrew (official), Arabic, English Ethnicity: Jewish 80.1%

(Europe/Americas/Oceania-born 32.1%, Israel-born 20.8%, Africa-born 14.6%, Asia-born 12.6%), non-Jewish 19.9% (mostly Arab) (1996 est.)

Cultural Traditions: Celebrating Special Occasions and Religious Occasions with food Customs: according to Jewish Culture Religions: Judaism 77%, Islam 16%, Christian 2%, Druze 2% (2003) Music and Dance: Israel has a well-known philharmonic orchestra. The country

has produced such classical music stars as violinist Yitzhak Perlman and pianist and conductor Daniel Barenboim. The Leonard Bernstein International Music Competition in Jerusalem gives annual awards in classical music. Pop music and rock and roll also have a large following, particularly in Tel Aviv, where local stars such as Ofra Haza, Ilanit, and Shalom Hanoch perform to enthusiastic audiences. Klezmer , a form of Jewish music that originated in Eastern Europe during the seventeenth century, is a raucous blend of drums, violins, clarinets, keyboards, and tambourines that is common at wedding celebrations. The Israel Ballet Company is world-famous. There are several modern dance troupes as well, most notably Inbal, Batsheeva, and Bat Dor. Israeli choreographer Ohad Nahrin is well known in the dance world. Israel also has a lively tradition of folk dances, which are performed by professional troupes and at occasions such as weddings. The hora , a circle dance, is one of the most commonly performed. Theater also is popular in Israel. Jewish theater is traditionally highly melodramatic, although many contemporary productions adopt many Western theatrical conventions and social issues. There are companies that stage productions in Russian and English as well as in Hebrew and Arabic. The film industry, also thriving, is best known for its documentaries, including Yaakov Gross's Pioneers of Zion , produced in 1995, and Toward Jerusalem , Ruth Beckermann's 1992 production.

Marriage Marriage. Traditionally, in both Arab and Jewish

societies, marriages were often arranged, but that is uncommon nowadays. However, there are powerful social taboos against intermarriage, and it is illegal for a Jew to marry a non-Jew in Israel. Those wishing to do so must go abroad for the ceremony. Even within the Jewish community, it is unusual for a very observant Jew to marry someone secular. Divorce is legal, but Orthodox Jewish law applies. According to this statute, men have the power to prevent their ex-wives from remarrying. If the woman enters into another relationship, the courts refuse to recognize it, and any children from such a union are considered illegitimate and themselves cannot marry in the State of Israel.

Food Food in Daily Life: Falafel , ground chickpeas mixed with onions and spices formed into

balls and fried, are served in pita bread as a sandwich. Other popular dishes include tabuleh (a salad of bulgar wheat and chopped vegetables), hummus (chickpea paste), grilled meats, and eggplant. Cumin, mint, garlic, onion, and black pepper are used for flavoring. Baklava is a popular dessert of Arabic origin and consists of flaky dough layered with honey and nuts. Coffee is often prepared in the Turkish style, extremely strong and thick and served in small cups. Jews are bound by a set of dietary laws called kashrut , which, among other restrictions, forbid the consumption of pork and shellfish, as well as the consumption of both meat and milk products at the same meal. Not all Israelis observe these rules, but many restaurants do.

Food Customs at Ceremonial Occasions: Food plays an important role in nearly all Jewish celebrations. The Sabbath, observed on Saturday, is ushered in on Friday evening with a family meal including an egg bread called challah. At the Jewish New Year the challah is baked in a circle, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life. Apples and honey also are eaten, symbolizing the wish for a sweet new year. Hamentaschen are traditionally served at Purim, the celebration of Queen Esther's triumph over the evil Haman, who was trying to annihilate the Jewish people. These are cookies filled with lekvar (prune preserves) and baked in the shape of a triangle. Some believe hamentaschen symbolizes the tricornered hat of Haman; others think it is his pockets, and still others think it represents his ears, which were clipped as a sign of shame. During Passover, Jews abstain from eating all leavened foods (bread, pasta, etc.). Instead they eat matzoh ,a flat, crackerlike bread. This is in memory of the Exodus from Israel, when the Jews could not wait for their bread to rise, and so carried it on their backs to bake in the sun. Passover also is observed with a ritual meal called a seder. Four glasses of wine, representing God's four promises to Israel ("I will bring you out of Egypt;" "I will deliver you;" "I will redeem you;" and "I will take you to be my people"), are drunk throughout the evening. Other symbolic foods at the occasion include boiled eggs (symbolizing new life) and charosis (a mixture of apples and walnuts, representing the mortar the Jews used as slaves). On Shavuot in the late spring, dairy-based treats are served. Because cooking is forbidden on the Sabbath, a traditional Saturday meal is cholent , a thick stew that is left in the oven to simmer overnight.

Conclusion Summary: Israel is a state made of Jews

and for Jews. Anyone different from that is seen as inferior. There a Jew can feel as powerful as a British person, unlike everywhere else where they are persecuted for being different.

What I learned: I learned that Israel is just like any other country with its political issues, nationalistic opinions, and ethnocentric views.

Works Cited "Culture of Israel - traditional, history, people, clothing, traditions, women, beliefs, food,

customs." Countries and Their Cultures. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.everyculture.com/Ge-It/Israel.html>.

Elliman, Wendy. "Flora and Fauna in Israel ." Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs . N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/MFAArchive/2000_2009/2001/9/Flora%20and%20Fauna%20in%20Israel>.

" Google Image Result for http://wesleying.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/ip.png." Google. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2011. <http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://wesleying.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/ip.png&imgrefurl=http://wesleying.org/%3Fm%3D20100202%26cat%3D2874&usg=__g6UmAg2NzK19H9V82ZWnLrX-XDQ=&h=752&w=579&sz=80&hl=

"Israel." CIA - The World Factbook. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/is.html>.

"Israel: History, Geography, Government, and Culture — FactMonster.com." Fact Monster: Online Almanac, Dictionary, Encyclopedia, and Homework Help — FactMonster.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 Mar. 2011. <http://www.factmonster.com/ipka

" News Briefs - Israel National News." Israel News | Israel's #1 News Site - Israel National News. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.israelnationalnews

"Points of Interest - Israel." Judaism, Torah and Jewish Info - Chabad Lubavitch. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/588026/jewish/Points-of-Interest.htm>.

"Political Leaders: Israel." Terra. Noticias en español, ocio y contenidos multimedia. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.terra.es/personal2/

GR

EEC

E

By: Deaysha Hines

DescriptionSize:131,957 sq kmClimate: temperate; mild, wet winters; hot, dry summersLocation: Southern Europe, bordering the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea, between Albania and TurkeyPopulation:10,760,136 (July 2011 est.)

Geographic Features Land Regions: Athens, 3,247,000 (metro. area), 747,300 (city

proper), Thessaloníki, 361,200; Piraeus, 179,300; Patras, 167,000 Seas: Adriatic, Ionian, and Aegean Seas Lakes: Lake Cercinitis, Lake Doirani, eastern portion, Lake

Dystos, presently largely drained , Lake Ioannina, Lake Kastoria, Lake Koronia, Lake Kournas, Lake Lagkada, Lake Lamia, Lake Lysimacha, Lake Mitrikou, Lake Morfi, Lake Ozeros, Lake Prespa, Little Lake Prespa, southeastern portion, Lake Saltini , Lake Stymfalia , Lake Taka, Lake Trichonida, Lake Vegoritida, Lake Vistonida, Lake Voivis, Lake Vólvi, Lake Vouliagmenis (Attica), Lake Vouliagmeni (Corinthia), Lake Voulismeni, Lake Voulkaria, Lake Yliki

Oceans: Atlantic and Indian Indigenous Fauna: boar, bear, wild cat, brown squirrel, jackal,

fox, deer, wolf, white goat, golden and imperial eagle, the vulture, and several species of falcons, the hawk, owl, pelican, pheasant, partridge, woodcock, nightingale, Squid, octopus, red mullet, lobster, prawn, shrimp, crab, oyster, mussel, cockle, dolphins, river fish, and the giant loggerhead turtle caretta-caretta.

Indigenous flora: wheat, corn, barley, sugar beets, olives, tomatoes, wine, tobacco, potatoes; beef, dairy products.

Vacation Tour and Points of Interest Athens is the wellspring of Western civilization, with such ancient glories as the

Parthenon and the Theater of Dionysus, where works of Euripides were first performed. The ancient Odeon of Herod Atticus is the showplace each summer of the Athens Festival. The center of modern Athens is Syntagma (Constitution) Square. Piraeus, the port of Athens, is the embarkation point for the Greek islands and other Mediterranean destinations.

Olympia, on the Peloponnesian peninsula, is the origin of the Olympic Games, first held there in 776 B.C. In 2004, the Games return, this time to Athens. The ruins of Mycenae, 600 years old when the Parthenon was built, emerge from the landscape. Sparta once was the mightiest of the city-states. In Corinth, the ruins of the Agora and the Temple of Apollo are still visible.

Thessaloniki, the second-largest city, has the White Tower, the green-domed Aghia Sophia church (8th century) and an exceptional new Byzantine museum. The Archaeological Museum displays riches of Macedonian kings drawn from excavations at nearby Pella, Vergina, and the sacred city of Dion.

Crete was home to Europe's 3000 B.C. Minoan civilization, whose traces are displayed at the Palace of Knossos.

Rhodes, largest of the Dodecanese isles, resounds with Crusader derring-do. The Knights of St. John (1309) built the impressive castle. Nearby is Lindos, graced by an 11th-century B.C. Dorian citadel on a magnificent acropolis. Rhodes is famous for fine sand beaches, excellent hotels and night life. Crete and Rhodes both are ideal year-round.

Mykonos, in the Cyclades, has some of Greece's best beaches, an adventurous night life and a cosmopolitan flair.

Santorini is a dramatic experience with volcanic-ash beaches and a star-shaped crater. At Akrotiri archaeologists in 1967 dug up the remains of a Bronze Age city, astonishingly intact despite the devastating volcanic explosion that took place around 1500 B.C.

History Early History: Indo-European peoples, including the Mycenaeans, began entering Greece about 2000 B.C. and

set up sophisticated civilizations. About 1200 B.C., the Dorians, another Indo-European people, invaded Greece, and a dark age followed, known mostly through the Homeric epics. At the end of this time, classical Greece began to emerge (c. 750 B.C.) as a loose composite of city-states with a heavy involvement in maritime trade and a devotion to art, literature, politics, and philosophy. Greece reached the peak of its glory in the 5th century B.C., but the Peloponnesian War (431–404 B.C.) weakened the nation, and it was conquered by Philip II and his son Alexander the Great of Macedonia, who considered themselves Greek. By the middle of the 2nd century B.C., Greece had declined to the status of a Roman province. It remained within the eastern Roman Empire until Constantinople fell to the Crusaders in 1204. In 1453, the Turks took Constantinople and by 1460, Greece was a province in the Ottoman Empire. The Greek war of independence began in 1821, and by 1827 Greece won independence with sovereignty guaranteed by Britain, France, and Russia.Greece achieved independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1829. During the second half of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, it gradually added neighboring islands and territories, most with Greek-speaking populations. In World War II, Greece was first invaded by Italy (1940) and subsequently occupied by Germany (1941-44); fighting endured in a protracted civil war between supporters of the king and other anti-Communists and Communist rebels. Following the latter's defeat in 1949, Greece joined NATO in 1952. In 1967, a group of military officers seized power, establishing a military dictatorship that suspended many political liberties and forced the king to flee the country. In 1974, democratic elections and a referendum created a parliamentary republic and abolished the monarchy. In 1981, Greece joined the EC (now the EU); it became the 12th member of the European Economic and Monetary Union in 2001. In 2010, the prospect of a Greek default on its euro-denominated debt created severe strains within the EMU and raised the question of whether a member country might voluntarily leave the common currency or be removed.

Impact on the World: Greece has had a huge effect on the world we live in. It has captivated our imaginations with its mythology and war stories and let us understand them through the arts they produced. It is the birthplace of democracy and the foundation for modern government.

Current Events: Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy,  Athens: A New Look for an Old City, Ancient Olympics Meet Wild West, Greece: Model of Socialistic Excess, Greece Financial Crisis Raises Doubts About European Union, Early Retirement in Greece.

Political

Type of Government: Parliamentary Republic

Government Leaders: › President Of The Republic Of Greece

Karolos Papoulias › Prime Minister

Georgios Papandreou

Economy Industry: tourism, food and tobacco

processing, textiles, chemicals, metal products; mining, petroleum.

Exports: $21.37 billion (2009 est.): food and beverages, manufactured goods, petroleum products, chemicals, textiles.

Imports: $64.2 billion (2009 est.): machinery, transport equipment, fuels, chemicals.

Major trading partners: Germany, Italy, UK, Bulgaria, U.S., Cyprus, Turkey, France, Netherlands, Russia, South Korea (2006) .

Economic Status: High-Income

Daily Life Standard of Living

› GDP/PPP (2009 est.): $341 billion; per capita $32,100

Literacy: 98% (2003 est.) Clothing: Modern European Style Internet hosts: 905,824 (2007). Internet users: 2.048 million (2006). Languages: Greek 99% (official), English,

French Ethnicity: Greek 98%, other 2%; note: the

Greek government states there are no ethnic divisions in Greece

Natural resources: lignite, petroleum, iron ore, bauxite, lead, zinc, nickel, magnesite, marble, salt, hydropower potential.

Arts in Greece Support for the Arts: The Ministry of Culture supports all the arts in terms of production,

education, publicity, festivals, and national centers, such as the Greek Film Center. There are provincial and municipal theaters, folklore institutes, orchestras, conservatories, dance centers, art workshops, and literary groups.

Literature: Oral poetry and folk songs thrived even under Ottoman domination and developed into more formal, written forms as the nation-state emerged. Poets and novelists have brought contemporary national themes into alignment with the major movements in Western literature. There have been two Greek Nobel laureates: George Seferis and Odysseas Elytis.

Graphic Arts: Long-standing traditions of pottery, metalworking, rugmaking, woodcarving, and textile production have been carried forward by artisan and craft cooperatives. Many sculptors and painters are in the vanguard of contemporary European art, while others continue the tradition of Orthodox icon painting.

Performance Arts: Music and dance are major forms of group and self-expression, and genres vary from Byzantine chants to the music of the urban working class known as rebetika . Distinctively Greek styles of music, dance, and instrumentation have not been displaced by the popularity of Western European and American music. Some of the most commonly used instruments are the bouzouki, santouri (hammer dulcimer), lauto (mandolin-type lute), clarinet, violin, guitar, tsambouna (bagpipe), and lyra (a-stringed Cretan instrument), many of which function as symbols of national or regional identity. The popular composers Mikis Theodorakis and Manos Hadjidakis have achieved international fame.

Shadow puppet plays revolving around the wily character known as Karagiozis were very popular in the late Ottoman period. Dozens of theater companies in Athens, Thessaloniki, and other areas, perform contemporary works and ancient dramas in modern Greek. Films are a popular form of entertainment, and several Greek filmmakers and production companies have produced a body of melodramas, comedies, musicals, and art films.

Cultural Religions: Greek Orthodox 98%, Islam 1%, other 1% Food in Daily Life: Grain, grapes, and olives are central

to the diet, supplemented with eggs, cheese, yogurt, fish, lamb, goat, chicken, rice, and fruits and vegetables. Certain foods are emblematic of the national identity, including moussaka, baklava, thick coffee, and resinated wine ( retsina ). Coffee-houses have long functioned as daily gathering places for men. Dining out has gained in popularity, with a corresponding increase in the number and variety of restaurants.

Food Customs at Ceremonial Occasions: Guests must always be offered refreshment, and all major ceremonies involve food. At funerals, mourners are given koliva (boiled wheat, sugar, and cinnamon), a special cake is baked on New Year's Day, and the midnight Easter service is followed by a feast, generally of lamb.

Monetary unit: Euro (formerly drachma)

Traditions and Customs Greeks are very religious and superstitious and most traditions reflect these properties. Traditional Festivals: Name Day Celebration, Engagement, Marriage, Baptism, Carnival, Clean Monday

(Kathari Deutera), Easter, Greek Independence Day, 28th October: The "NO“ Some Greek Traditional Superstitions:

Greek superstitions are coming either from religion or paganism. They vary from region to region.› Bread

In villages, bread is considered as a gift of God; old women bless the bread and make the sign of the cross with a knife before slicing it.

› The Evil EyeSome Greeks, especially in villages, believe that someone can catch the evil eye, or “matiasma”, from someone else’s jealous compliment or envy. A person who has caught the evil eye usually feels bad physically and psychologically.To avoid the matiasma, those who believe in it wear a charm: a little blue marble glass with an eye painted on it or a blue bracelet. Blue is believed to be the colour that wards off the evil eye but it is also believed that people with blue eyes are givers of the matiasma.Garlic is another way to ward off the evil eye, and one can sometimes see it hanging in a corner of some houses. Garlic, as well as onion, is also considered of having a great healing power by many Greeks. If someone is feeling ill, they will advice him to eat garlic.

› KnivesGreeks never hand knives to someone who asks for it for they consider that if they do that they will have a fight with the person. Therefore they set it down on the table and let the other person take it.

› PriestGreek Orthodox priests (popes) are very revered and the custom is to kiss a priest’s hand in respect when meeting one; today this custom is only followed in villages. But it is believed that seeing a black cat and a priest during the same day is bad luck.

› SpitingSome Greeks believe that spitting chases the devil and the misfortune away. That is why when someone talk about bad news (deaths, accidents, etc…) the others slightly spit three times saying “ftou, ftou, ftou”. Another example is that someone that compliments a baby, a child or even an adult for its beauty, has also to spit three times on the complimented person.

› Tuesday the 13th Unlike the western belief, in Greece the unlucky day is Tuesday the 13th and not Friday the 13th.

› The expression "Piase kokkino" (touch red)When two people say the same thing together they immediately say “piase kokkino” one another and both have to touch any red item they can find around him. This happens because Greeks believe that saying the same thing is an omen and that the two persons will get into a fight or an argument if they don’t touch a red thing.

Olympics Origin of the Olympics: The Greeks invented athletic contests

and held them in honor of their gods. The Isthmos game were staged every two years at the Isthmos of Corinth. The Pythian games took place every four years near Delphi. The most famous games held at Olympia, South- West of Greece, which took place every four years. The ancient Olympics seem to have begun in the early 700 BC, in honor of Zeus. No women were allowed to watch the games and only Greek nationals could participate. One of the ancient wonders was a statue of Zeus at Olympia, made of gold and ivory by a Greek sculptor Pheidias. This was placed inside a Temple, although it was a towering 42 feet high.

Olympics Now: The Olympics are held every four years by different cities in different countries all around the world with millions of competitors and viewers and up to 200 categorizes.

Conclusion Greece is a revitalized reflection of an

ancient civilization that helped shaped civilization and society as we know it.

I learned that Greece has more to offer than most people would think as also deserves more credit in helping develop society.

Works Cited " Ancient Greece - Olympic Games ." Ancient Greece - History, mythology, art, war,

culture, society, and architecture. . N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.ancientgreece.com

"Answers.com - What animals are indigenous to Greece." WikiAnswers - The Q&A wiki. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Mar. 2011. <http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What

"BIOGRAPHIES OF POLITICAL LEADERS OF GREECE." Today's Home News. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.ana-mpa.gr/en/biogr/government.htm

"Culture of Greece - history, people, clothing, traditions, women, beliefs, food, customs, family." Countries and Their Cultures. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.everyculture.com/Ge-It/Greece.html>.

" Google Image Result for http://www.greece4real.com/Download/Client%20area/greece-map03.gif." Google. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2011. <http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.greece4real.com/Download/Client%2520area/greece-map03.gif&imgrefurl=http://www

"Greece." CIA - The World Factbook. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/gr.html>.

“Greece & Greek News. Greece News Headlines & Greek Current Events Articles | Greece." World News, Current Events, Politics, Finances, Technology, Health, Lifestyle, Entertainment & More. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.ihavenet.com/gr

"Greece: History, Geography, Government, and Culture — FactMonster.com." Fact Monster: Online Almanac, Dictionary, Encyclopedia, and Homework Help — FactMonster.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.factmonster.com/ipka

"Greece / Home Page." Geographia - World Travel Destinations, Culture and History Guide. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.geographia.com/etc/

"Greece Traditions: Information about the customs & traditions of Greece and the Greek Islands." Greek Islands, Greece travel guide, Greece hotels by Greeka.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.greeka.com/greece-traditions.htm>.

SA

INT LU

CIA

By: Deaysha Hines

DescriptionSize:616 sq kmClimate: tropical, moderated by northeast trade winds; dry season January to April, rainy season May to AugustLocation: Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic Ocean, north of Trinidad and TobagoPopulation: 161,557 (July 2011 est.)

Geographic Features Land Regions: Castries, Dennery, Micoud, Soufrière Rivers: Trou Sallé River , Esperance River , Dauphin River , Trou Grauval River ,

Marquis River, Louvet River , Fond d'Or River, Dennery River, Praslin River, Mamiku River, Patience River, Fond River , Volet River, Troumassée River, Ger River, Canelles River, Rouarne River, Vieux Fort River, Little Vieux Fort River, Black Bay River, Piaye River , Balembouche River, Dorée River , Trou Barbet River, L’Ivrogne River , Soufriére River, Jeremy River, Migny River, Mamin River , Mahaut River, Canaries River, La Verdure River, Anse Cochon River, Grande Rivière de l'Anse la Raye, Petite Riviere de l'Anse La Raye , Roseau River, Millet River, Cul de Sac River, Castries River, Choc River, Bois d'Orange River

Sea: Caribbean Sea Oceans: Atlantic Ocean Indigenous Fauna: lancehead snake, sea turtle, lizards, iguana, Saint Lucia

Parrot, St. Lucia giant rice rat Indigenous flora: bananas, coconuts, vegetables, citrus, root crops, cocoa Special Points of Interest and Vacation Tour: Castries, Morne Fortune (Hill of

Good Luck), Marigot Bay, Derek Walcott Square, Anse-la-Raye & Canaries, Soufriere, Choiseul, Gros Islet, Pigeon Island, The Pigeon Island Museum & Interpretive Centre, Errard Plantation, La Sikwe Historical Sugar Mill & Plantation, Marquis Estate, Morne Coubaril Estate

History Early History: The island, with its fine natural harbor at

Castries, was contested between England and France throughout the 17th and early 18th centuries (changing possession 14 times); it was finally ceded to the UK in 1814. Even after the abolition of slavery on its plantations in 1834, Saint Lucia remained an agricultural island, dedicated to producing tropical commodity crops. Self-government was granted in 1967 and independence in 1979.

Current Events: Minister speaks on Ghanaian ‘prophet’! , Micoud grand Sports Day, Victories for Police and Lancers FC, Bordelais inmates get higher education!, SJC staff on parade!, Canaries Infant school getting back on track!, Do it yourself sushi at Jade!, A new way to fight crime, Who’s steering the wheel at Education Ministry?, Crime Chief speaks out on latest drug arrest!, A voice crying in the wilderness!, Augier school still suffering

Political Type of Government: Parliamentary

democracy and a Commonwealth realm Government Leaders:

› chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952); represented by Governor General Louisse LAKE-TACK (since 17 July 2007)

› head of government: Prime Minister Winston Baldwin SPENCER (since 24 March 2004)

› cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister

Economy Industry: clothing, assembly of electronic

components, beverages, corrugated cardboard boxes, tourism; lime processing, coconut processing.

Exports: $288 million (2006 est.): bananas 41%, clothing, cocoa, vegetables, fruits, coconut oil.

Imports: $791 million (2006 est.): food 23%, manufactured goods 21%, machinery and transportation equipment 19%, chemicals, fuels.

Major Trade Partners: UK, U.S., Brazil, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, Finland (2004).

Monetary unit: East Caribbean dollar

Daily Life Standard of Living

› GDP/PPP (2009 est.): $1.75 billion; per capita $10,900.

Literacy: 90% (2001 est.) Clothing: Light Weight Western Style

Clothing Internet Service Providers (ISPs): 15 (2007). Internet users: 55,000 (2004). Languages: English (official), French patois Ethnicity: black 82.5%, mixed 11%, East

Indian 2.4%, other or unspecified 3.1% (2001 census)

Cultural Traditions and Customs: La Woz, La Magwit, Jazz Festival, Jounen

Kweyol, Carnival, Creole Culture, Arawak Indian Culture Religions: Roman Catholic 68%, Seventh-Day Adventist 9%,

Pentecostal 6%, Evangelical 2%, Anglican 2%, other Christian 5%, Rastafarian 2%, none 5% (2001)

Foods: The fertile, volcanic soil of the island yields an enormous supply of produce, and the island is one of the leading banana exporters in the Caribbean, with six different varieties available. In addition to bananas, St. Lucia's abundant tropical fruits include mangoes, papayas, pineapples, soursops, passionfruit, guavas, and coconuts. Local chefs combine the island's fresh produce with a wide variety of equally fresh seafood to create tantalizing curries, Creole-style entrees, and pepperpot stews. Callaloo soup, made from a leafy green similar to spinach, is the national dish. The island's outstanding cuisine has recently gained international recognition by garnering several gold medals in the regions most prestigious culinary competitions.

Music and Dance: indigenous folk music tradition, as well as other Caribbean music genres such as soca, zouk and reggae.

Natural resources: forests, sandy beaches, minerals (pumice), mineral springs, geothermal potential.

Conclusion Summary: Saint Lucia is a beautiful

island that blends many different cultures and makes it unique.

Saint Lucia has 2 volcanoes and only 9 schools.

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2011. <http://aboutstlucia.sluhoo.com/exploring%20stlucia.html>. "Original Official Guide to St. Lucia - Culture and People." Geographia - World Travel

Destinations, Culture and History Guide. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.geographia.com/st-lucia/lccul01.htm>.

"Map Of Saint Lucia | World Map Now." World Map Now. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2011. <http://www.worldmapnow.com/tag/map-of-saint-lucia>.

"Saint Lucia." CIA - The World Factbook. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/st.html>.

"St. Lucia: History, Geography, Government, and Culture — FactMonster.com." Fact Monster: Online Almanac, Dictionary, Encyclopedia, and Homework Help — FactMonster.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2011. <http://www.factmonster.com/ipka

"St. Lucia News and Current Events at Caribdaily.com ." Caribbean News . N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. <http://www.caribdaily.com/all/st-lucia/>.