Jordan: Melting Pot of Cultures
Jordan: Melting Pot of Cultures
Lesduur is: 45 minOnderdelen in deze les
Jordan: Melting Pot of Cultures
What do you already know about Jordan's culture after reading?
First we read!
10
minute
00
second
Share with each other what you've read!
2
minute
00
second
Learning Objectives
At the end of the lesson you will be able to:
Explain why Jordan can be considered a melting pot of cultures
Describe how both foreign and local cultures have influenced Jordanian culture
A Country at the Crossroads
Jordan is strategically located between Europe, Africa, and Asia, and within the Islamic world. This location has exposed Jordan to many civilisations and influences.
Historical Influences
Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all ruled over Jordan at different times. The Ottoman Empire and the British also left their mark, leading to a uniquely layered culture.
The Hashemite Kingdom
Jordan’s royal family, the Hashemites, trace their lineage to the Prophet Muhammad. The monarchy was established by the British in 1921 after centuries under Ottoman rule.
Amman: Old Meets New
Founded in the 13th century BC, Amman has grown into a bustling metropolis, blending ancient history with contemporary Western influences.
Neighbouring Nations
Jordan shares borders with Israel, the West Bank, Syria, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. These geographic links shape migration, trade, and culture.
Population: A Diverse Tapestry
98% of residents are Arabs, but their backgrounds are diverse. Many refugees and their descendants have become citizens, adding to Jordan’s social fabric.
Refugees and Expats
Ethnic Composition
Since independence in 1946, Jordan has welcomed millions of refugees from Palestine, the Caucasus, Iraq, Lebanon, and Syria. Nearly one third of the population is not originally Jordanian.
Refugees: A Lasting Impact
Jordan’s open attitude toward refugees has created a blend of cultures, languages, and traditions that distinguish its society from other nations in the region.
Melting Pot Definition
A melting pot is a society where people from different cultures live together and integrate. In Jordan, diverse groups contribute to a dynamic national culture while retaining aspects of their origins.
Religious Diversity
95% of Jordanians are Muslim (mostly Sunni), but the country also has ancient Christian communities. Both Islamic and Christian holidays are national days off, including Christmas.
Religious Holidays
Jordan’s calendar is interfaith. Islamic holidays such as the Prophet’s birthday and Christian holidays like Christmas coexist. This is unusual in the Middle East and reflects Jordan’s inclusivity.
Bedouin Heritage
Bedouins, once nomadic desert dwellers, make up about 40% of Jordanians. Many are now settled, but strong traditions such as hospitality and family loyalty remain core values.
Key Social Customs
Guests are treated with warmth, especially among Bedouins. Hospitality arises from the need to survive in the desert’s harsh environment.
Family Importance
Hospitality
Support within the tribe or family is vital for personal and community well-being—a value that persists in Jordanian society today.
Jordanian Cuisine
Jordanian food blends Mediterranean, Ottoman, and Bedouin influences. Staples include yoghurt, olive oil, beans, humus, and baklava, as well as the national dish: mansaf.
Coffee Culture
Arabic coffee, introduced by traders, is symbolically important. Sharing coffee, especially among Bedouins, signals goodwill and the beginning of important discussions.
Western and Local Influences
Global brands like Starbucks coexist with traditional coffee shops. Jordan’s culinary scene reflects both foreign and local influences, highlighting its cultural fluidity.
Petra: Symbol of Heritage
Petra, established by the Nabataeans, is Jordan’s best-known UNESCO site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It exemplifies the layered history of the region.
Threats to Petra
Petra’s sandstone monuments face erosion, poorly managed restoration, and pressure from tourism. Preservation is essential to safeguard this cultural treasure.
Essence
Jordan is a melting pot of different cultures. Its location at the crossroads of three continents and a welcoming attitude to foreigners have led to the growth of a very diverse population. Its culture incorporates many foreign influences, as well as traditional Bedouin cultural aspects. National values as well as food and drink traditions have developed as a result of both internal and external influences.
Reflection: Jordan Today
Make three columns, write above each a different cultural element and write examples using this paragraph
