Human Geography of North Africa History and Government Invasions of Arab armies influenced the cultures of North Africa and spread the Muslim religion. Muslims and Jews fleeing the Inquisition infused Morocco with Spanish culture in the 1400s. The Ottoman Empire ruled North Africa until the end of World War I in 1918, after which European colonial powers exerted control. An educated middle class developed feelings of nationalism that provided the basis for the countries that later declared independence.

Population Patterns The area is a mix of Arab cultures with indigenous non-Arab populations like the Berbers, a nomadic group of farmers who move from place to place with herds of animals. The availability of water greatly influenced settlement, with most people living along the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts and the Nile River valley. Emigration rates are high due to greater employment opportunities in other countries and continents. Human Geography of North Africa

Society and Culture Today The Muslim religion is the dominant faith. Arabic is the dominant language in the region, with French used in some areas as a result of colonization. Class status influences family size, with upper- class families having fewer children than lower- class families. Human rights are often stifled, with women not permitted to work freely. Human Geography of North Africa

Economic Activities Economic output varies greatly in the region, with oil and natural gas as the biggest exports. Agriculture is important in areas with a Mediterranean climate, while fishing is important along waterways. Despite some economic progress, North Africa suffers from political instability, high unemployment, and poverty. Human Geography of North Africa