MAY 16

On this date in 1916, one hundred years ago today, the Sykes-Picot Agreement was signed.  The official name of the agreement is the Asia Minor Agreement.  In this formal agreement, Great Britain, Ireland, and France with the assent of the Russian Empire, agreed on how they would divide up and treat the lands of the Middle East after the end of World War I.  

Borders were drawn for Iraq and Syria.  It was agreed which country would control parts of Turkey, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and Iraq.  

And why was this such a big deal?  This agreement shaped this region which is so full of unrest today.  The agreement is also to blame for the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.    One hundred years ago today.  

*o*