Gaza
Gaza, also known as Gaza City, is a major Palestinian city in the Gaza Strip, a territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Here are key points about Gaza:
History
- Ancient History: Gaza has a rich history dating back over 3,000 years. It was mentioned in Egyptian records as early as 15th century BCE and was part of various ancient empires including the Egyptian Empire, Assyrian Empire, and Babylonian Empire.
- Classical Era: The city was a part of Alexander the Great's empire, and later ruled by the Seleucid Empire and then the Roman Empire.
- Islamic Era: After the rise of Islam, Gaza came under Umayyad Caliphate control in 637 CE. Over centuries, it was ruled by various Islamic dynasties including the Abbasids, Fatimids, and Ottomans.
- Modern Era: After World War I, Gaza came under British Mandate for Palestine. Following the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, it was occupied by Egypt until 1967 when Israel captured it during the Six-Day War. Since then, the governance of Gaza has been complex with periods of Israeli occupation, Palestinian self-rule, and intermittent conflicts.
Geography and Demographics
- Location: Gaza lies on the coastal plain between the Gaza Strip and the Mediterranean Sea.
- Population: As of recent estimates, the population of Gaza City is over 500,000, making it the largest city in the Gaza Strip.
- Climate: The area has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
Political and Social Context
- Governance: Since 2007, Gaza has been under the control of Hamas, following their electoral victory and subsequent conflict with Fatah. This has led to international isolation and economic blockades by Israel and Egypt.
- Conflict: The Gaza Strip, including Gaza City, has been the focal point of several conflicts between Israel and Palestinian militant groups, notably Hamas, leading to significant humanitarian crises.
- Economy: The economy is severely restricted due to blockades, leading to high unemployment rates and poverty.
Cultural Significance
- Heritage: Gaza has historical sites like the Great Mosque of Gaza, built on the site of an ancient church, showcasing its layered history.
- Education and Culture: Despite the challenges, Gaza maintains a vibrant cultural life with universities, theaters, and arts festivals.
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