Study for the National Geographic Bee Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which country controls Western Sahara?

Morocco is recognized as the country that controls Western Sahara, which is a territory in North Africa. After Spain withdrew from its colonial rule in 1975, Morocco moved to claim the territory. Since then, Moroccan authorities have administered the area, although this has led to ongoing disputes and conflict with the Sahrawi people who seek independence and have declared the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. The situation is further complicated by international responses; while some countries support Morocco's claim, others advocate for the self-determination of the Sahrawi people. The United Nations continues to view Western Sahara as a non-self-governing territory and has called for a referendum on the issue of self-determination, but such efforts have faced significant challenges. The other options represent either incorrect claims or outdated contexts. Algeria is a neighboring country that supports the independence movement but does not control Western Sahara. Spain, which initially colonized the area, no longer has governance over it as it ceded control in the 1970s. The notion of Western Sahara governing itself is also inaccurate as it does not have full autonomy and remains a disputed territory.

Morocco is recognized as the country that controls Western Sahara, which is a territory in North Africa. After Spain withdrew from its colonial rule in 1975, Morocco moved to claim the territory. Since then, Moroccan authorities have administered the area, although this has led to ongoing disputes and conflict with the Sahrawi people who seek independence and have declared the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic.

The situation is further complicated by international responses; while some countries support Morocco's claim, others advocate for the self-determination of the Sahrawi people. The United Nations continues to view Western Sahara as a non-self-governing territory and has called for a referendum on the issue of self-determination, but such efforts have faced significant challenges.

The other options represent either incorrect claims or outdated contexts. Algeria is a neighboring country that supports the independence movement but does not control Western Sahara. Spain, which initially colonized the area, no longer has governance over it as it ceded control in the 1970s. The notion of Western Sahara governing itself is also inaccurate as it does not have full autonomy and remains a disputed territory.