- China is a large country located in East Asia with a population of over 1.3 billion people. It has a long history dating back over 4,000 years and was once ruled by various dynasties. China has a communist government and has the second largest economy in the world today. - Morocco is a country in North Africa located along the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. It has a population of around 35 million and was once ruled by various dynasties and foreign powers until gaining independence in 1956. Morocco has a constitutional monarchy government and relies on agriculture, fishing, and trade. - Finland is a northern European country with over 5 million people. It has a long coastline and over

1. Michael NewnsCountry Project

2. ChinaMichael Newns

3. Maps of China

4. Country DescriptionTotal Area: 9,596,960(sq km)/ 3,705,386(sq mi)Land Area: 9,326,410(sq km)/ 3,600,927(sq mi)Water Area: 270,550(sq km)/ 104,459(sq mi)The climate varies greatly Northern China: summer temperatures reaching 90 degrees F and winters of Arctic severity. Rainey summers and dry winters.Central China: Very hot summers and cold wintersSouthern China: subtropical climate. Very hot summers and mild winters. Water pollution, erosion, and air pollution are concerns.

5. Country Description(continued)Geographical Coordinates: 35°00’ N; 105 °00’ ELocated in the North and Eastern hemispheresEast AsiaBordered by Afghanistan, Bhutan, Burma, India, Kazakhstan, North Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, andPopulation: 1,338,612,968Life Expectancy: 73 Years

6. China Flag

7. GeographyWest: mountains, high plateaus, desertsEast: plains, deltas, and hillsMajor rivers flow west to east: Yangtze, Huang He (Yellow River), AmurMost of the arable lands lie along these riversMost rivers empty into Pacific OceanEast China bordered by the Yellow Sea and East China SeaSome well known features are the Himalayas and the Gobi DesertMost recognizable fauna and flora are the giant panda and bamboo.

8. Geography(continued)A very popular tourist attraction is Mount Everest, part of the Himalayas and the Earth’s highest point at 8,850 meters

9. Geography(continued)Another great tourist attraction is the Great Wall of China.

10. HistoryChinese history dates back 4,000 years.Family dynasties ruled China for about 2,000 yearsThe last dynasty was the Qing and ended in 1911Many inventions have come from China, the most famous being paperThe Republic of China started in 1912 The government was weak and regional warlords looked to gain land and power.China fought Japan in the Sino- Japanese War, which was part of WWII. Japan surrendered in 1945.

11. History(continued)A civil war then started between the communists and the nationalists.The communist party led by Mao Zedong won the war and took control of the government. The nationalists retreated to Taiwan.Current Event: In 2008, Beijing hosted the Summer Olympics.

12. PoliticalThe People’s Republic of China is a communist governmentThe major party is the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) There are eight smaller parties that are all controlled by the CCPThe Chief of State is President HuJintaoThe Head of Government is Premier WEN Jiabao

13. EconomyThe Great Leap Forward: 1958- Mao Zedong pushed for a more modernized Chinese economyChina now has the third largest economy in the world behind the U.S. and Japan.China is the largest trading nation in the world and the largest exporter and second largest importer of goods.Industry counts for over half of China’s gross domestic product(GDP).

14. Economy (continued)Exports: machinery and equipment, textiles and clothing, footwear, toys and sporting goods, mineral fuels Imports: machinery and equipment, mineral fuels, plastics, iron and steel, chemicals Major trade partners: Japan, United States. Germany, South KoreaRestrictions: China recently stopped selling aircraft and some other military supplies to the U.S. after the U.S. agreed to supply Taiwan with money and military supplies.Trade Organizations: Ministry of Commerce of P.R.China, China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission, China Council for the Promotion of International Trade

15. Daily LifeThe Chinese standard of living as increased dramatically over the past decade.In 1949, the life expectancy was 32. It is now 73.91 % of total population is literate95 % of males are literate86 % of females are literateCommunist restriction on clothing are gone and Chinese fashion is developing. Adults are wearing more formal than casual. Teenagers like brand names and western clothing. Many children wear shirts with pictures of cartoon characters. Internet usage in China has risen from 0% in 1993 to 28 % in 2008.

16. CultureMost values of China come from Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism.Religion: 60% Buddhist, 4% Christian, 2% Muslim, 34% AtheistChopsticks are used for every meal in China.Tipping at restaurants is considered an insult. Noodles, small pieces of meat, rice, and fruit deserts are common.The Chinese food in America is nothing like the food in China. America’s Chinese food has greater potions, more fat, and better taste.

17. Culture (continued)Table Tennis, basketball, and soccer are the most popular sports in China.Martial arts has always been a popular activity and is believed to have originated in China.Various types of art are practiced in China like paper cutting.Some of the oldest music in the world has dated back to the time of Confucius. China takes great pride in the Great Wall.

18. Winter Olympics 2010China won 11 medals: 5 gold, 2 silver, 4 bronzeCame in 8th placeAll gold medals were in skating (speed and figure)Gold medalists: Wang Meng, Zhou Yang, ShenXeu, Zhao Hongbo, 90 participants

19. ConclusionChina is one of the oldest countries in the world and there is unlimited interesting information on it. The culture and history is fascinating. The one fact that I found the most interesting is that in China’s long history, it has always been independent.

20. MoroccoMichael Newns

21. Map of Morocco

22. Country DescriptionTotal Area: 446,550 (sq km)/ 172,413 (sq mi)Land Area: 446,300 (sq km) / 172,316(sq mi)Water Area: 250 (sq km)/ 97 (sq km)Climate: Mediterranean in the North. More extreme climate in interiorIt is very dry and warm on the east side of the Atlas mountains. The climate here is desert.32°00’ N; 5°00’ WBordered by Algeria, Western Sahara, and SpainIn North AfricaPopulation: 34,859,364

23. Moroccan Flag

24. GeographyMorocco borders the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea.The Atlas Mountains are located in the center of the country. The Rif Mts are in the North. Large areas of plateaus, intermountain valleys, and rich coastal plainsThe olive tree is widely distributed, but the oil-yielding argan tree, unique to Morocco, grows only in the Sous Valley.Panthers, foxes, and gazelles are numerous.The desert is barren except for an occasional oasis.Morocco is subject to earthquakes and periodic droughts.

25. HistoryIn the early years of the first century, Morocco was under Roman rule. Muslims then started to inhabit and take control of Morocco. Became independent state in 1062Several dynasties ruled Morocco until the middle of the nineteenth century. Spain declares war on the Moors in Morocco in 1859.Became a French protectorate in 1912.Independent again in 1956.First democratic elections in1997Current Events: Tourists are afraid to fly to Muslim countries so Morocco’s tourism is hurting. Also, the dispute over the Western Sahara is continuing.

26. PoliticalThe Kingdom of Morocco is a constitutional monarchy.Capital : RabatBicameral legislatureKing Mohammad VIPrime Minister Abbas El FassiCouncil members appointed by monarchMonarch is hereditary

27. EconomyMorocco relies less on industry and more on agriculture and fishing. Its main trading partner and investor is France. It also trades with Spain, Britain, Germany, Italy, and U.S.Exports: clothing, fish, inorganic chemicals, transistors, crude minerals, fertilizers (including phosphates), petroleum products, fruits, vegetables Imports: crude petroleum, textile fabric, telecommunications equipment, wheat, gas and electricity, transistors, plastics The economy is growing steadily.Trade Associations: Morocco-US Free Trade Agreement

28. Daily Life Moroccan standard of living is low, but not drastically low. 20% the population us below the poverty line.Life expectancy is 72 years.Literacy rate:52%Literacy in men:64%Literacy in women:39%The national garment is the djelleba, a hooded caftan worn by both men and women, although Western-style clothing is becoming more common.Internet usage went from 0% in 1995 to 33% in 2008.

29. Culture99% of Morocco is Muslim. 1% Christian.Barley and wheat are the main diet.Lamb, beef, and chicken are the main meats.Mint tea is the national drink.They don’t eat pork or drink alcohol.Married sons and their wives live with the father and mother. When the father dies, then the sons go and make their own household.Soccer is the most popular sport.Moroccan music is a blend of Arab, Berber and classical styles- Dancing in Morocco is a must during various ceremonies and festival like marriage, harvest festival, religious gatherings

30. Winter Olympics 2010Morocco had 1 participant.AzzimaniSamir competed in the Alpine Skiing.

31. ConclusionMorocco is a highly Muslim country where family and religion are the most important values, two values that have been lost in America.

32. FinlandMichael Newns

33. Map of Finland

34. Country DescriptionTotal Area: 338,145 (sq km)/ 130,558 (sq mi) Land Area: 304,473 (sq km)/ 117,557 (sq mi)Water Area: 33,672 (sq km)/ 13,001 (sq mi)Climate: Summers are short and mild. The days are long. Winters are long and cold. Average temperature in Helsinki is 42°F.Location: 64°00’N; 26°00’ E; In northern EuropeBordered by Norway, Sweden, and RussiaPopulation; 5,250,275Finland is an Archipelago- a series of Islands

35. Finland Flag

36. Geographymostly low, flat to rolling plains interspersed with lakes and low hillsMany of the islands are on the Archipelago Sea, and Finland also boarders the Gulf of Finland. Finland has lots of lakes such as Lake Saimaa in Southern Finland.There are rine, spruce, and birch forests in Finland. 75% of the fauna are insects. Some of the non-insects are otters, elk, foxes, and birds.One of Finland’s most famous tourist attractions is a church built into solid rock.

37. HistoryFinland has always been bullied by other nations.1713- Russia invades Finland1808- Russia invades Finland again1907- Finland is the first country to give women the right to vote.1917- Finland declares its independence during the Russian Civil War.During WWII, Finland declared neutrality but had an alliance with Germany from 1918.The Soviet Union invaded and Finland gave up 10% of its land.

38. History(continued)Germany invaded the Soviet Union, and so did Finland. In response, Britain declared war on Finland.Finland conceded even more land and paid millions of dollars to the Soviet Union in 1944.1948- Finland and Soviet Union signed Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance.1973- Finland signed free-trade agreement with European Economic Community (EEC) .Finland became a member of the European Union in 1995.Current Event: A fox broke into a zoo in Finland and killed 16 flamingoes.

39. PoliticalFinland is a republicCapital city is HelsinkiPresident TarjaHalownenPrime Minister MattaVanhanenCouncil members appointed by president

40. EconomyIndustry has replaced agriculture as the leading sector in Finland’s economy.Industry accounted for 34% of Finland’s GDP.Some industries include metal products, electronics, shipbuilding, pulp and paper, copper refining, foodstuffs, chemicals, textiles, clothingExports: machinery and equipment, chemicals, metals; timber, paper, pulpImports: foodstuffs, petroleum and petroleum products, chemicals, transport equipment, iron and steel, machinery, textile yarn and fabrics, grainsMajor trade partners: Germany, Sweden, Russia, Britain, France, DenmarkTrade Associations: Finnish Foreign Trade Association, European Free Trade Association.

41. Daily LifeHigh level of health care and standard of livingLife expectancy is 79 years.Literacy rate:100%Fairly casual dressed. Teens follow trends. Formal dress worn on special occasions. The men wear a peaked cap, woolen cap or felt hat. Internet usage went from 0% in 1990 to 79% in 2007

42. CultureReligion: 89% Evangelical Lutheran, 1% Russian Orthodox, 1 % other, 9% noneFinns are more reserved and care about respect and privacySalmon, reindeer, berries, and soup are common.The national sport in Finland is pesapallo. It is played much like baseball.Folk, rock, opera, and pop are poplar genres of music.

43. Winter Olympics 2010Finland won 5 medals: 1 silver and 4 bronzeThe silver medal was won by PiiroinenPeetu in the Men’s Snowboarding Halfpipe.

44. ConclusionFinland is a fairly modern country not very different from the U.S.A very interesting fact that I learned is that in June and July, the night only lasts for 2-3 hours. In the extreme north, there is a period of 73 days that the sun does not set.

45. SurinameMichael Newns

46. Map of Suriname

47. Country DescriptionTotal Area: 163,270(sq km)/ 63,039(sq mi)Land Area: 161,470 (sq km)/ 62,344(sq mi)Water Area: 1,800(sq km)/ 695(sq mi)Climate: tropical, hot, and humid year-round. average 75°F to 90°F.There is rain year round, amounts differing with the seasons. Flooding is a cause for concern.Location:4°00’N; 56°00’WBordered by Brazil, French Guina, and GuyanaIn Northern Latin AmericaPopulation: 481,267

48. Suriname Flag

49. Geographymostly rolling hills; narrow coastal plain with swampsBorders the Atlantic OceanFlora: water lilies, orchids, tropical shrubsFauna: iguanas, snakes, white egretMany tourists come to explore the tropical rain forest that makes up about 80% of Suriname

50. HistoryThe Dutch acquired Suriname from England in the 1500’s. It was turned into a plantation colony an slaves were brought there. Slavery was abolished in 1863, but labor was still needed. Contract laborers from the south came to Suriname and worked on the plantation. Suriname gained full independence in 1975Current Event: This past January, Suriname’s first president died at the age of 99.

51. PoliticalThe Republic of Suriname is a constitutional democracyIts capital is ParamariboChief of State: Runaldo Ronald VENETIAAN Head of Government: Runaldo Ronald VENETIAAN Cabinet members are appointed by the president

52. EconomySuriname’s industry in growing, but is still relatively low.Some industries: bauxite and gold mining, alumina production, oil, lumbering, food processing, fishingExports: alumina, crude oil, lumber, shrimp and fish, rice, bananasImports: capital equipment, petroleum, foodstuffs, cotton, consumer goodsMajor Trading Partners: US, Netherlands, Trinidad and Tobago, China, France, and JapanTrade Associations: Suriname Trade & Industry Association

53. Daily LifeLife expectancy is 73 yearsLiteracy rate:89%Literacy in males:92%Literacy in females:84%The Javanese women wear sarongs as they would in Indonesia. The Creole women wear the traditional kotomisse, with an angisa or handkerchief. Internet usage in Suriname rose from 0% in 1995 to 8% in 2007.

54. CultureReligion: Hindu 27%, Protestant 25%, Roman Catholic 23%,Muslim 20%, indigenous beliefs 5%Rice, potatoes, chicken, beans, and peppers are very common.Soccer and swimming are the most popular sports. The music of Suriname is well-known for kaseko music, and for having an Indo-Caribbean tradition.Many tourist come to Suriname to observe the beauty of the rain forest.

55. Winter Olympics 2010Suriname did not participate in the 2010 Winter Olympics.

56. ConclusionSuriname is a beautiful, tropical country which I would love to visit one day.I found the diversity of religions practiced in Suriname interesting.

57. NamibiaMichael Newns

58. Map of Namibia

59. Country DescriptionTotal Area:825,418 (sq km)/318,694 (sq mi)Land Area:825,418(sq km)/ 318,694(sq mi)Water Area:0 (sq km)Climate: semi-desert. Hot days and cool nightsSummer, days can reach 100°FRain from December to March, unrelenting dryness for rest of yearLocation: 22°00’S, 17°00’ ESouthern AfricaBordered by Angola, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia Population:2,108,665

60. Namibia Flag

61. Geographymostly high plateau Namib Desert along coast; Kalahari Desert in eastFlora: 120 different types of trees such as mopane, terminalia, marula, and giant figsFauna: elephant, rhino, giraffe, buffalo, lion, leopard, and cheetah.The Namib desert is said to be the oldest desert in the worldMany tourists visit Namibia to see the wild life

62. HistoryBushmen, Damara, Namaqua peoples inhabited Namibia in the 14th centuryIn the late 1800’s-early 1900’s, the country became under German ruleThe natives rebelled, they were defeated, and this started the genocide of the natives led by the GermansNamibia became a colony of South Africa in WWIThe people of Namibia launched a war of independence in 1966Namibia finally gained its independence in 1990Current Event: in 2009, the manifesto of the Republican part in Namibia is released

63. PoliticalNamibia is a republicThe capital of Namibia is WindhoekBicameral legislaturePresident Hifikepunye POHAMBAPrime Minister Nahas ANGULA

64. EconomyIndustry is relatively low in NamibiaAgriculture makes up most of the economyExports: diamonds, copper, gold, zinc, lead, uranium; cattle, processed fish, karakul skins Imports: foodstuffs; petroleum products and fuel, machinery and equipment, chemicals Major Trade partners: United States, EU

65. Daily LifeStandard of living is bad in NamibiaThe life expectancy is very low at 51 yearsLiteracy Rate:85%Literacy in Men:84%Literacy in Women:83%many urban people dress in Western style clothing some rural tribes maintain their traditional dress. Thehimbafor example wear leather thongs or skirts. Only 5% of people in Namibia use the internet

66. CultureWhen a man dies, his sibling inherit the propertyWhites account for 7% of population and they live in urban areasReligion: Christian 50%, Lutheran 40%, indigenous beliefs 10%Mealie, or corn, is the main food in NamibiaOther popular foods include beef, mutton, millet, peanuts, and melonsFish is a big export but not a common part of the Namibian dietMa/gaisa is mainly sang in Khoekhoegowab or Nama/Damara, and it is the most popular dance music in Namibia

67. Winter Olympics 2010Namibia did not participate in the 2010 winter Olympics

68. ConclusionNamibia is a developing country with lots of natural beauty. They are making a great effort to try to catch up with the industry and technology with the rest of the world.You can see this effort through Namibia’s announcement that they are trying to build a nuclear power plant within the next 20 years.

69. TanzaniaMichael Newns

70. Map of Tanzania

71. Country DescriptionTotal Area:945,087 (sq km)/ 364,898 (sq mi)Land Area: 886,037(sq km)/ 342,099(sq mi)Water Area:59,050 (sq km)/ 22,799 (sq mi)Climate: coastal strip is tropical with high humidityCentral plateau takes up most of country, hot and dry2 dry seasons, 2 rainy seasonsBad monsoonsLocation: Southern/Central Africa; 6°00’S, 35°00’EBorder countries: Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia Population:41,048,532

72. Tanzania Flag

73. GeographyPlains along the coastPlateau takes up most of countryBorders Indian OceanWooded grasslands are widely scattered throughout the countryThe drier central areas include bush lands and thickets4 million wild mammals Antelope, zebra, elephant, hippopotamus, rhinoceros, giraffe, and lionVarious species of monkeys827 species of birdsFamous Mt. Kilimanjaro 5,985 m

74. History1498-Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama visits Tanzanian coast.1884-German Colonization Society begins to acquire territory on the mainland.1919- Germany loses WWI, Tanzania given to Britain1961- Tanzania becomes independent2001- a new goldmine opens, making Tanzania the third largest gold producer in the world

75. PoliticalTanzania is a republicCapital is Dar es SalaamChief of state: Jakaya KIKWETEHead of government :Jakaya KIKWETE Five year termsCabinet members appointed by president

76. EconomyTanzania’s industry is very smallMost of it is centered around agricultureExports: gold, coffee, cashew nuts, manufactures, cotton Imports: consumer goods, machinery and transportation equipment, industrial raw materials, crude oil Major Trade partners: UK, South Africa, Japan, France, and IndiaTrade Sanctions: Tanzania has a trade sanction on Burundi which will be lifted when Burundi returns to democracy.

77. Daily LifeStandard of living is lowLife expectancy is only 52 yearsLiteracy rate:69%Literacy in Men:85%Literacy in Women:70%Clothing: khanga and kitengeclothes for womenToga-like garment for menWomen wear a lot of bead jewelryOnly 1% of the people in Tanzania use the internet

78. CultureWomen marry in early to mid teens Groom offers a price for the brideMuslim 35%, indigenous beliefs 35%, Christian 30%Right hand considered “clean”, left hand is “unclean”2 main meals per dayA dish known as ugali, made from cassava, corn, sorghum or millet flour, is very commonFish stew, vegetables, and meatSoccer and “netball” (like basketball)are poplarA game similar to capture the flag is also commonThe music of Tanzania stretches from traditional African music to the string-based taarab to a distinctive hip hop known as bongo flava.The Serengeti is known as one of the best wildlife sanctuary in the world

79. Winter Olympics 2010Tanzania did not participate in the 2010 Winter Olympics.

80. ConclusionTanzania is a beautiful country with majestic wildlife.Tanzania is probably one of the oldest known continuously inhabited areas on Earth; fossil remains of humans and pre-human hominids have been found dating back over two million years.

81. KazakhstanMichael Newns

82. Map of Kazakhstan

83. Country DescriptionTotal Area:2,717,300 (sq km)/ 1,049,150 (sq mi)Land Area:2,669,800 (sq km)/1,030,810 (sq mi)Water Area:47,500 (sq km)/18,340 (sq mi)Climate: Continental and dry. Winter temperatures and snowfall are rarely extreme and wind is light, summers are pleasant with 80 degree temps. Location: Asia; 48°00’N, 68°00’EBordered by China, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan Population: 15,399,437

84. Kazakhstan Flag

85. Geographyextends from the Volga to the Altai Mountains and from the plains in western Siberia to oases and desert in Central AsiaLandlocked, does not touch any oceansSome fauna: brown bear, Caspian sea wolf, Caspian tiger, eagle, snow lepardSome flora: steppes and desertsTourist Attraction: Almaty-a beautiful setting between mountains and plains

86. History1868- Thousands of Russian and Ukrainian peasants are brought in to settle Kazakh lands1917-Civil war breaks out following the Bolshevik revolution in Russia1936-Kazakhstan becomes a full union republic of the USSR.1940-Hundreds of thousands of Koreans, Crimean Tatars, Germans and others forcibly moved to Kazakhstan1949-The first nuclear test explosion is carried out at the Semipalatinsk nuclear test ground in eastern Kazakhstan1961-The first manned spacecraft launched from the Baikonur space launch site in central Kazakhstan1991-Kazakhstan established independence.1992- Kazakhstan admitted to the United NationsKazakhstanis being viewed as a nuclear threat because of the levels of uranium it harvests

87. PoliticalKazakhstan is a republicCapital is AstanaBicameral parliamentChief of State: President Nursultan A. NAZARBAYEVHead of Government: Prime Minister Karim MASIMOVCouncil of ministers appointed by president

88. EconomyBig industries are oil, coal, and iron oreExports: oil and oil products, ferrous metals, chemicals, machinery, grain, wool, meat, coalImports: machinery and equipment, metal products, foodstuffsMajor Trade partners: Russia, Germany, US, ChinaTrade Associations: The U.S.-Kazakhstan Business Association (USKBA)

89. Daily LifeStandard of living is goodLife expectancy is 68 yearsLiteracy Rate:99%Literacy in Men:99%Literacy in Women:97%Clothing: Urban Kazaks wear Western style clothesTraditionally Kazaks liked to wear boots with with a pair of felt stockings in the winterInternet usage rose from 0% in 1994 to 12% in 2008

90. CultureReligion: Muslim 47%, Russian Orthodox 44%, other, 7%, Protestant 2%There is a housing shortage and many people live in urban apartmentsMany games that involve horses are playedKuirdak, is a dish prepared from freshly slaughtered meat and consists of the animal's liver, heart, kidneys and other organs cut into pieces, boiled in oil and served with onions and pepper. YUM!Folk orchestras are popular in Kazakhstan

91. Winter Olympics 2010Kazakhstan had 38 participants in the 2010 winter OlympicsKazakhstan won one medal: silverThe winner of the medal was Elena Khrusttaleva in the women’s biathlon

92. ConclusionKazakhstan is a fairly modern country that is catching up with the other Asian countries. I think that it is interesting that Kazakhstan has to rely on industry so much because there is not much water to have farming.

93. CubaMichael Newns

94. Map of Cuba

95. Country DescriptionTotal Area:110,860 (sq km)/ 42,803 (sq mi)Land Area:110,860 (sq km)/42,803 (sq mi)Water Area:0 (sq km)/ 0 )(sq mi)Climate: mild subtropical climate cause by trade winds and warm surrounding watersAverage temperature is 77°FIn the Caribbean; 21°30’N, 80°00’ WPopulation:11,451,652

96. Cuba Flag

97. Geographymostly flat to rolling plains, with rugged hills and mountains in the southeastbordered on the south by the Caribbean Sea and on the north by the Gulf of Mexico and the Straits of FloridaAn islandFlora: cactus, mango, pomegranate, avocado, bananaFauna: woodpecker, jutia, snakes, Tourist attractions: immaculate beaches bring in thousands of tourists

98. History1492-The navigator Christopher Columbus claims Cuba for Spain.1511-Spanish colonization of the island begins under the direction of Diego Velazquez.1607-Havana is officially named the capital of Cuba.1868-War of independence lasts for ten years between Cuban colonials wanting independence from what they see as unjust rule from Spain. The War ends in a treaty and promise of greater autonomy for Cuba.1895-Jose Marti leads a second war of independence; US declares war on Spain.1898-US defeats Spain, which gives up all claims to Cuba and cedes it to the US.1898-Cuba becomes independent with Tomas Estrada Palma as its president; however, the Platt Amendment keeps the island under US protection and gives the US the right to intervene in Cuban affairs.1906-Cuban President Tomas Estrada resigns and the United States invades and occupies Cuba after a rebellion led by Jose Miguel Gomez.1925-Socialist Party founded, forming the basis of the Communist Party.

99. History(continued)1959-Fidel Castro led a Communist revolution and the rebel army overthrew the Cuban president Fulgencio Batista.1962-Cuban missile crisis occurs when Castro allows the USSR to deploy nuclear missiles in Cuba. The crisis was solved when the USSR agreed to take back the missiles in exchange for the US withdrawing their missiles from Turkey.1965-Cuba’s sole political party renamed the Cuban Communist Party.1976-Cuban Communist Party approves a new socialist constitution; Castro elected president.1980-More than 100,000 Cubans flee to the US.2008-Raul Castro takes over as president, days after Fidel announces his retirement.

100. PoliticalCuba is communistCapital is HavanaPresident Raul CastroSecondary head of state: Gen. Jose Ramon Machado Ventura

101. EconomyIndustry and agriculture are about the same importanceSome industries: sugar, petroleum, tobacco, Exports: sugar, nickel, tobacco, fish, medical products, citrus, coffeeImports: petroleum, food, machinery and equipment, chemicalsMajor trade Partners: Spain, China, Venezuela, Italy, France, Canada, US, MexicoTrade Associations: US-Cuba Trade AssociationTrade Sanctions: US put an embargo on Cuba in 1960

102. Daily LifeStandard of living is good, much better than it was under the early years of Fidel CastroLife expectancy is 78 yearsLiteracy Rate:99%Literacy in Men:97%Literacy in Women:96%Clothing: Casual dress and lightweight slacks are the norm during the day with more formal wear in the evenings. Shorts are popular at the beach but no shorts are allowed at night in public placesInternet usage rose from 0% in 1995 to 12 % in 2008

103. CultureIt is not uncommon for 3 generations to live under one householdReligion: Roman Catholic 85%, other 15%Baseball is the favorite sportFood: rice, beans, eggs, tomatoes, lettuce, chicken, beef and pork. Various spices usedwide range of creolized musical styles, based on its cultural origins in Europe and AfricaMany Spanish and Latin dances

104. Winter Olympics 2010Cuba did not participate in the 2010 Winter Olympics.

105. ConclusionCuba is a fascinating country with rich culture but still is recovering from the oppressive communist government and rule of Fidel Castro.

106. IranMichael Newns

107. Map of Iran

108. Country DescriptionTotal Area: 1,649,000 (sq km)/636,679 (sq mi)Land Area: 1,636,000 (sq km)/631,660 (sq mi)Water Area: 12,000 (sq km)/ 4,633 (sq mi)Climate: mostly arid or semiarid, subtropical along Caspian coastLocation: Middle East, Asia; 32° 00’N, 53° 00’EPopulation: 66,429,284

109. Iran Flag

110. Geographyrugged, mountainous rimhigh, central basin with deserts, mountains; small, discontinuous plains along both coastsBorders Arabian sea, Persian Gulf, and Caspian SeaBordered by Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iraq, Pakistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan Flora: oak, ash, elm, cypress, walnut, beech, maple, and mulberryFauna: wild sheep and goats, gazelles, wild asses, wild pigs, panthers, and foxesThere is not much tourism in Iran because of the war

111. HistoryRuled by Muslim dynasties1907-ntroduction of constitution which limits the absolutist powers of rulers.1914-Iran declares neutrality but is scene of heavy fighting during World War I.1935-Formerly known as Persia, Iran is adopted as the country’s official name.1941-Reza Shah, who sides with Germans in the war, forced to abdicate by Allies. His son, Reza Pahlavi, named Shah.1979-The Shah was overthrown by the Islamic Revolution ending 2,500 years of monarchy.1979-Islamic republic set up. 1980-Start of Iran-Iraq war which lasts for eight years.

112. History(continued)1981-The American hostages are released ending 444 days in captivity.1990-A major earthquake strikes Iran, killing approximately 40,000 people.1990-Iran remains neutral following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait.1995-US imposes oil and trade sanctions over Iran’s alleged sponsorship of “terrorism”, seeking to acquire nuclear arms and hostility to the Middle East process. Iran denies the charges.2003-40,000 people are killed in an earthquake in south-east Iran; the city of Bam is devastated.Current Event: American troops remain stationed in Iran

113. PoliticalIran is a theocratic republicCapital is TehranSupreme Leader Ali Hoseini-KHAMENEIPresident Mahmud AHMADI-NEJAD First Vice President Parviz DAVUDI Cabinet members picked by president with legislature approval

114. EconomyIndustry and agriculture are both big40% of population below poverty lineExports: petroleum, chemical and petrochemical products, fruits and nuts, carpetsImports: industrial raw materials and intermediate goods, capital goods, foodstuffs and other consumer goods, technical services, military supplies Major Trade Partners: Germany, Japan, Switzerland, France, ItalyTrade Associations: Iranian Trade Association Trade Sanctions: The US does not sell any aircraft or military materials to Iran

115. Daily LifeStandard of living is not good, but not bad40% of population below poverty lineLife Expectancy is 71 yearsLiteracy rate:77%Literacy in Men:85%Literacy in Women:73%Clothing: dress formally and conservatively in publicMen wear western clothes or robes and traditional turbansWomen must be covered from head to foot in publicInternet usage rose from 0% in 1994 to 325 in 2008

116. CultureReligion: Shi a Muslim 89%, Sunni Muslim 9%, other 2%Large families favoredMen can have up to 4 wivesMany say that chess was invented in IranOther popular games are wrestling, weightlifting, squash, and horse racingMidday meal is most importantMuslims do not eat anything from dusk to dawn during RamadanReligion is extremely important; so is fasting and praying

117. Winter Olympics 2010Iran had 4 athletes in the 2010 winter Olympics.They competed in alpine skiing and cross country skiing.They did not win any medals.

118. ConclusionIran is a founding member of the UN, NAM, OIC and OPEC.It is a powerful country struggling to set up a strong government while dealing with radical Muslims.

119. TaiwanMichael Newns

120. Map of Taiwan

121. Country DescriptionTotal Area: 35,980 (sq km)/ 13,892 (sq mi)Land Area: 32,260 (sq km)/ 12,456 (sq mi)Water Area: 3,720 (sq km)/ 1,436 (sq mi)Climate: sub-tropical with temperatures ranging from 12 to 35 degrees Celsius Summer and winter are long, spring and fall are shortTyphoons last from June to OctoberAsia; 23°30’N, 121°00’EPopulation:22,974,347

122. Taiwan Flag

123. Geographyeastern two-thirds mostly rugged mountains flat to gently rolling plains in westIsland in Pacific OceanFlora: evergreen tropical and subtropical forest, where ficua, pandanus, palms, teak, bamboos, and camphors are commonly foundFauna: Foxes, flying foxes, deer, wild boar, bats, squirrels, macaques, and pangolinsTourist Attraction: Yushan Mountain

124. History1626-The Spanish colonize northern Taiwan.1661-Chinese Ming dynasty occupied Taiwan.1683-The Manchus (Tartars) conquer Taiwan which becomes part of the Chinese empire.1895-China ceded Taiwan to Japan under the Apr 17 Treaty of Shimonoseki. This followed a war over control of the Korean peninsula. Japanese occupation ended in 1945.World War II; Japan surrenders and China’s Chiang Kai-shek appoints General Chen-Yi to take over Taiwan.1971-Taiwan is expelled from the United Nations. The seat is given to the People’s Republic of China.1978-The United States announces it will terminate its diplomatic relations with Taiwan on Jan. 1, 1979.

125. History(continued)2001-Taipei lifts a 50-year ban on direct trade and investment with China.2002-Taiwan officially enters the World Trade Organization, only a few weeks after China.2005-Tension between China and Taiwan intensifies, when China passes an anti-secession law that says the country can use force if Taiwan moves toward achieving independence.2007-The country attempts to join the UN for the first time under the name Taiwan, rather than the official title of Republic of China. The application is rejected.2009-The leaders of China and Taiwan exchange direct messages for the first time in more than 60 years, in a sign of warming ties.

126. Politicalmultiparty democratic regime Capital is TaipeiUnicameral legislatureChief of State: MA Ying-jeouHead of Government: LIU Chao-shiuan

127. EconomyIndustries: electronics, petroleum refining, chemicals, textiles, iron and steel, machinery, cement, food processingExports: computer products and electrical equipment, metals, textiles, plastics and rubber products, chemicals Imports: machinery and electrical equipment minerals, precision instruments Major Trade partners: Japan, US, China, South Korea

128. Daily LifeStandard of living is goodLife expectancy is 78 yearsLiteracy rate:96%Clothing: Western-Style clothing is commonSuit is appropriate in businessAppearance is important

129. CultureReligion: Confucian 93%, Christian 5%, other 2%Live in crowded conditionsMen's primary duty is to be a good son, husband and father are secondaryNever put chopsticks in rice bowl, looks like sticks of incense at a funeralPopular sports: golf, ping-pong, basketball, soccer, softball, and badmintonInstrumental music includes multiple genres, such as beiguan and nanguan.

130. Winter Olympics 2010Taiwan did not participate in the 2010 Winter Olympics.

131. ConclusionTaiwan is a very young developing country that is still fighting for international recognition. Although US has helped out its economy tremendously. Also China wants it in the worst way!