A trade cartel of oil producing states, mostly Middle Eastern that uses its power to influence global oil markets.
The name given to big-name, well-known architects who participate in construction to market or brand a city.
A sect of Islam distinct from Sunni whose adherents believe that the succession of the Prophet Mohammed should be hereditary and follow family bloodlines.
Money that leaves other areas of the world seeking a location with strong secrecy laws where money can be hidden and invested without scrutiny.
An empire that developed from the Roman Empire, centered on Constantinople that lasted from 285 until 1483.
An austere form of Sunni fundamentalism in the Islam religion that is heavily promoted by Saudi Arabia.
A city that is the largest in the country and is the center of economic and political life.
A grassy plain that contains few trees.
The pilgrimage to Mecca required of all devout Muslims at east once in their lives.
The war resulting from the attack in 1973 of Israel by Egypt, Iraq and Syria.
The cultural development in 14th century Europe, centered in Italy, that drew upon classical learning.
The process by which water is transferred from land to the atmosphere by evaporation from soil and other surfaces and by transpiration from plants.
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