26

Question 26

The term "Levant" often heard in the news roughly corresponds to which of the following regions?

AOptions

A
A) Region along the eastern Mediterranean shores
B
B) Region along North African shores stretching from Egypt to Morocco
C
C) Region along Persian Gulf and Horn of Africa
D
D) The entire coastal areas of Mediterranean Sea

BSolution

The term "Levant" refers to a geographical and cultural region in the Eastern Mediterranean. It historically includes countries like Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, Palestine, and parts of Turkey and Egypt. It is a region of great historical, cultural, and geopolitical significance, often associated with the Fertile Crescent and various ancient civilizations. The term is frequently used in news and academic contexts when discussing the geopolitics, conflicts, and history of this specific part of the Middle East, particularly its coastal areas along the Mediterranean Sea.

Diagram for Q26

CStrategy

For questions involving geographical terms, especially those frequently appearing in current affairs, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of their geographical boundaries and associated regions. Utilize maps regularly to familiarize yourself with the locations of countries, regions, and significant geographical features. Pay attention to historical and cultural contexts that often define such terms.

DSyllabus Analysis

This question falls under the World Geography section of the UPSC Prelims syllabus, specifically pertaining to regional geography and current geopolitical terms.

EQuestion Analysis

Easy. This is a direct factual question about a well-known geographical term often appearing in news.