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History and culture

Pathbreakers of Arab America—Ernest Hamwi

This is the sixty-seventh of Arab America’s series on American pathbreakers of Arab descent. The series includes personalities from entertainment, business, sports, science, arts, academia, journalism, and politics, among other areas. Our sixty-seventh pathbreaker is Ernest Hamwi, a Syrian born Arab American businessman and entrepreneur. Born on November 18, 1883, in Damascus, Syria he is considered by some as the creator of the ice cream cone, which he purportedly conceived of while working as a concessionaire at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. Contributing writer, John Mason, informs us that there is much more information available on the ice cream cone than exists on Ernest himself. Nevertheless, this is his brief but eventful story.

The History of the Golan Heights: The Road to Occupation

By Mehdi El Merini / Arab America contributing writer The Golan Heights, a plateau in southwestern Syria, has long been a region of strategic significance, cultural richness, and political contention. Known for its fertile lands and commanding position overlooking northern Israel, Lebanon, and Jordan, the Golan Heights has become one of the most contested territories … Continued

Beneath the Sands The Vibrant Colors of Esna

By Yara Marei / Arab America Contributing Writer. For centuries, the Temple of Esna lay hidden beneath layers of silt and sand, its grandeur buried and its secrets forgotten. Travelers passing through the Nile’s banks could scarcely imagine the vibrant colors of sanctuary that once stood there, alive with the prayers of ancient worshippers and … Continued

The Treaty of Fes–1912: A Turning Point in Moroccan History

By: Rania Basria / Arab America Contributing Writer The Treaty of Fes, signed on March 30, 1912, was a watershed moment in Moroccan history, creating a French protectorate over Morocco. This agreement triggered political, social, and economic developments that would have long-term consequences for Morocco. Arab America contributing writer, Rania Basria, explores the treaty’s history, … Continued

The Ultimate Guide: 46 Children’s Books that Celebrate Arab Heritage

By: Arwa Almasaari / Arab America Contributing Writer Are you searching for the perfect gift for the young readers in your life? This curated list of children’s books celebrates Arab heritage and identity, offering stories that highlight the richness of Arab cultures and traditions. Whether you want to educate, inspire, or simply share a meaningful … Continued

The Rise of Halal Tourism: A New Frontier in Travel

By Mehdi El Merini / Arab America contributing writer. In recent years, Halal tourism has emerged as one of the fastest-growing segments of the global travel industry. With Muslim travelers projected to spend over $300 billion on travel by 2026, according to CrescentRating, the demand for destinations catering to Islamic principles is reshaping the tourism … Continued

Tourism Rejuvenates Syria’s Image and Draws Foreign Investment

By: Fedal Hanoun / Arab America Contributing Writer Syria, a nation known for its ancient civilizations and rich cultural legacy, has encountered many difficulties in the past ten years as a result of protracted conflict. The resurgence of tourism, however, presents a singular chance to improve Syria’s standing abroad, promote cultural diplomacy, and act as … Continued

The Baghdad Pact: NATO of the Middle East?

By Liam Nagle / Arab America Contributing Writer During the Cold War that took place in the aftermath of the Second World War, many countries around the world had to pick sides between the two contenders – the United States and the Soviet Union. The Arab world was no exception, with Arab Nationalist movements often … Continued

The Lebanese National Pact: History and Controversy

By: Liam Nagle / Arab America Contributing Writer Lebanon is a unique country in the Middle East. It is made up of a variety of religious groups, including Maronites, Sunni and Shia Muslims, and Druze. This diversity shapes the country’s identity. The political system reflects this diversity as well. The National Pact was created to … Continued

The Sand War of 1963: A Brief Conflict with Long Shadows

By Mehdi El Merini / Arab America Contributing Writer The Sand War, a brief yet impactful clash between Morocco and Algeria, unfolded in the fall of 1963. Occurring just a year after Algeria’s hard-won independence from French colonial rule, the Sand War revolved around territorial disputes inherited from colonial-era borderlines. Though lasting only a few … Continued

Impact of Arab Culture in Language, Art, and Science

By: Fedal Hanoun / Arab America Contributing Writer Rich and varied, Arab culture has had a lasting impression on the world, impacting facets of daily life well beyond the Arab country’s boundaries. Arab culture has influenced a worldwide legacy through language, art, trade, and science, adding to a collective history of creative and intellectual accomplishments. … Continued

Celebrating National Baklawa Day

By Mehdi El Merini / Arab America Contributing Writer Celebrated annually on November 17, national Baklawa Day honors one of the world’s most beloved pastries. Baklawa’s delicate, flaky layers and rich filling of nuts, sweet syrup, and fragrant rose water make it a dessert treasured across cultures. Although commonly associated with Turkish and Greek cuisine … Continued

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