The Geographical Legacy of Palestine: A Century of Learning and Understanding

Palestine, a land with a rich and varied geography, has a complex historical and political context that has evolved over centuries. This article delves into the geographical legacy of Palestine, tracing its historical development through the educational system and the works of prominent educators. From the early modern attempts at documenting Palestine's geography to the detailed expositions of modern times, the geographical understanding of Palestine has been a source of both national pride and political contention.

Historical Context and Educational Institutions

The study of Palestine's geography has been integral to its national identity, education, and cultural heritage. In 1923, Hussain Rawhi, a inspector at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, authored a seminal schoolbook titled Al-Mukhtasar Fi Jukhrafiyat Filastin. This book was a pivotal contribution to the education of Palestinian students, covering various aspects of the land, from its locations and borders to its natural features and human geography.

Geographical Features of Palestine

The geography of Palestine encompasses several distinct regions:

Mediterranean Coast Plain: Extending from the Egyptian frontier to just south of Haifa, this area is known for its fertile lands and productive agriculture. Central Mountain Ridge: Comprising the hills of Jerusalem and Nablus, with the highest peak at Mount Ebal at 934 meters. Galilee Hills: Located in the northern part of Palestine, these hills are known for their red earths and support fruit, vineyards, and olive cultivation. Jordan Valley: Extending from the Syrian border to the Dead Sea, this area includes the Huleh basin. Beer Sheba District: An extensive plateau suitable for barley cultivation in winters with sufficient rainfall.

The longest and most significant river in Palestine is the Jordan River, stretching from Banyas to the Dead Sea over 252 kilometers. The climate is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, with significant variations in rainfall across different regions. The soil types vary from sandy and loamy lands to fertile areas suitable for citrus and olive cultivation.

The Geographical Map of Palestine

A series of maps from different periods, such as the 1926 Egyptian Atlas, the 1946 Survey of Palestine, and the 1960 Dar al-Jalil atlas, illustrate the regions of Palestine. Arthur Strahorn divided the land into six agriculturally distinct areas based on soil types and landscapes, providing a comprehensive geographical overview of the region.

Agricultural Heritage and Economic Development

Palestine's agricultural heritage is deeply rooted in its geography. Olive groves, citrus plantations, and vineyards are prominent. Wheat and barley have long been important crops, with wheat cultivation peaking in southern Palestine and barley thriving in the southern regions.

Before 1948, Palestine was a major exporter of agricultural goods, including wheat, barley, sesame, olive oil, and soap. The economic integration into the global market started in the mid-19th century, marked by the Crimean War. The export of Jaffa oranges began around 1856 and soon became a significant part of the regional and international trade, illustrating the deep connection between Palestine's geography and its economic prosperity.

Conclusion

The geographical legacy of Palestine is a profound tapestry of natural features, agricultural practices, and historical significance. Through educational works like Rawhi's schoolbook and detailed maps of different periods, the physical landscape of Palestine has been well-documented and understood. Despite political tensions, the geographical aspects of Palestine remain a cornerstone of its identity, culture, and national pride.