ABSTRACT
The exceedingly complex patterns of distribution of population and peoples in the Middle East are shaped by many interacting biophysical, cultural, and historical influences. Obviously highly correlated are the geographical patterns of population and precipitation and water supply; other factors have constantly been at work to shape unique patterns of peoples, languages, religions, and ethnic groups. The discussion of patterns of Middle Eastern peoples reveals that the richness and complexity of the region's cultural patterns and gives insights into the human dynamics behind major trends and events in the area: the underlying political patterns; historical and contemporary conflicts; traditional group hostilities; changing cultural patterns; migrations of ethnic and religious groups; and irredentist claims. Although these patterns have long demonstrated their critical impact on geopolitical interactions, their impact in Iraq has appeared in news headlines daily since 2003 as world attention suddenly began to focus on, for example, the patterns of Kurds, Sunnis, Shii, Turkmans, and others.
