Difference between revisions of "Kuwait"

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Kuwait

The State of Kuwait is a small oil-rich desert nation at the head of the Persian Gulf. It has land borders with with Iraq and Saudi Arabia. The name Kuwait is derived from Arabic meaning "fortress built near water".

The country became a British Protectorate in 1899 and enjoyed British rule until June 19, 1961, when it was granted status as a sovereign independent state. It is now a constitutional emirate, headed by a Prime Minister, Nasir Muhammad al-Ahmad al-Sabah (appointed by the Amir on 3 April 2007). As an emirate the Head of Government is Amir Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jabir al-Sabah which is a hereditary title.

Invasion by Iraq

For a more detailed treatment, see Invasion of Kuwait.

On the 2nd of August 1990, Kuwait was invaded by Iraq, and following aerial bombardment from US and allied warplanes a short 4 day ground war started on 23 February 1991, Kuwait was liberated. As such Kuwait is a strong ally of the United States and many units bound for service in Iraq will rally in Kuwait.

The chief source of revenue is oil, and approximately 50% of the total GDP. Kuwait has proven crude oil reserves of 96 billion barrels which is approximately 10% of the world total. Despite the riches from oil wealth, there are very few other resources for Kuwait and most of the food consumed has to be imported and the water desalinated from the sea. The currency of Kuwait is the dinar.

Kuwaitis are predominantly Muslim, though there are a few Christians and Atheists. The Kuwaiti christians count around 200 families. The total population is 2,505,559 and 51% of that total are non-nationals consisting of Egyptians followed by Indians, Bangladeshis, Pakistanis, Filipinos and Sri Lankan residents.

The capital is Kuwait City.

References

CIA Factbook -- Kuwait [1]