Iraq

Iraq, established as a British mandate territory after World War I, encompasses ancient Mesopotamia - birthplace of writing and civilisation. The Hashemite monarchy (1921-58) gave way to a republic and eventually Baathist rule under Saddam Hussein (1979-2003). The 2003 US-led invasion toppled Hussein but unleashed sectarian conflict. Iraq holds some of the world's largest oil reserves.

• Existed: 1932 CE – present
• Type: Entity
• Government: Republic / Dictatorship
• Capital: Baghdad