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Iraq facts Tiscali
The essential facts about Iraq
With war a reality make sure you know the history and politics of Iraq.
Iraq country facts
Iraq quiz
News updates
Iraq country facts
Iraq quiz
News updates
The low-down on Iraq
Prior to the discovery of oil fields beneath the Iraqi desert only Bedouin nomads were to be seen outside the cultivated area of the country.
The Iran - Iraq war
An estimated 1 million people died in the war. Chemical weapons were used, cities and the important oil installations of the area were the target for bombing raids and rocket attacks, and international shipping came under fire in the Gulf.
Who is Saddam Hussein?
Saddam came to power in 1968 and has been president from 1979. He presided over the Iran-Iraq war 1980-88, and harshly repressed Kurdish rebels seeking independence in northern Iraq. Find out more...
What is the Ba'ath Party?
The ruling party in Iraq and Syria - its constitution is a blend of neo-Marxist socialism and nationalism.
About Islam
Islam was founded in the Arabian peninsula in the early AD 600s. It's sacred book is the Koran, which Muslims believe was divinely revealed to Muhammad, the prophet or messenger of Allah.
Who are the Shiites?
The Shiites are doctrinally opposed to the Sunni Muslims. They developed their own version of the Sunna (traditional law of Islam).
Who are Sunni muslims?
Sunnis are members of the larger of the two main sects of Islam (Shiites being the other), with about 680 million adherents.
The background to the Gulf War in 1991
The invasion and annexation of Kuwait by Iraq led to a war costing Iraqi casualties in the range of 80,000-150,000 troops and 100,000-200,000 civilians.
The background to NATO
NATO was formed at the start of the Cold War, at a time when the capitalist nations of the West were fearful of the potential for a communist Soviet invasion of Western Europe
The background to the UN
The UN's 1945 Charter sets out the goals of maintaining international peace and security, developing friendly relations among nations, to cooperate in solving international problems and in promoting respect for human rights.
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