Why did European nations such as Britain colonize countries in the Middle East in the beginning of the twentieth century?

Question

A.
to gain an upper hand over the United States
B.
to export oil from Britain to the Middle East
C.
to control the region’s rich oil reserves
D.
to import agricultural products such as cotton

Answer 1

C. to control the region’s rich oil reserves

During the early twentieth century, European powers, particularly Britain, sought to establish control over the Middle East primarily to access and control its vast oil reserves, which were becoming increasingly important for industrial and military purposes. The discovery of oil in the region significantly altered geopolitical dynamics and made it a focal point for colonial interests.