The Middle East is a region in Western Asia and North Africa that is home to a diverse range of cultures, languages, and religions. It is known for its rich history, including ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Persia, as well as the birthplace of three major world religions - Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. The region is also known for its geopolitical significance, with ongoing conflicts and tensions between countries, as well as the presence of vast energy resources like oil and natural gas. Researchers in the Middle East study a wide range of topics including politics, history, religion, culture, economics, and security issues.