Final answer:
Lebanon is a Levantine country known for its diverse culture, religious plurality, and varied geography, including the Lebanon Mountains and Bekaa Valley. It has a history of prosperity as the 'Paris of the Middle East,' but has been plagued by civil war and political instability. Today, Lebanon faces socioeconomic challenges, with its complex cultural and political scene influenced by both internal and external powers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lebanon is a country with rich history and diverse geography located in the Levant region of the Middle East. It's bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the west, and its interior is characterized by the Lebanon Mountains and the fertile Bekaa Valley. Following World War II, Lebanon's capital city, Beirut, became known as the "Paris of the Middle East" due to its thriving nightlife and business sector. However, the nation's prosperity was marred by the onset of a brutal 15-year civil war beginning in 1975, involving both local and external forces.
Lebanon is known for its cultural and religious diversity, with a large number of religious groups shaping the societal fabric. The climate varies from a Mediterranean coastline to snowy mountain ranges, supporting activities such as skiing. The nation's past economic strength in banking and finance earned it the nickname "Switzerland of the Middle East," but political instability often hinders economic growth.
The complex political landscape, featuring a diverse array of minority groups, is often influenced by external entities such as US-Saudi Arabia and Iran-Syria alliances, leading to heightened tensions and disruptions. Despite a ceasefire in 1990, Lebanon has faced ongoing division, polarization, and increased corruption, with frequent clashes among its cultural and religious factions.