The Middle East is in the center of three continents: Europe, Asia and Africa. Three famous religions were founded there: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. There is some debate over what constitutes the 'middle east', but for practical purposes, this library guide does not have North Africa as part of the Middle East.
For an overview and background information, use the following encyclopedias, dictionaries, handbooks. Also check out the CIA World factbook.
Source: Political Middle East Map (2013), Perry Castaneda Map Collection, University of Texas.
Joseph Westendorf provided assistance in developing content and resources for this guide