Largely populated by Shiites who are not allied with Saddam Hussein, it was the site of sporadic resistance when British troops entered in April.
Founded in 636 by caliph Umar I, it was occupied by the British during World War I. After the British left in 1930, oil refineries were built in this city, which lies 75 miles from the Persian Gulf on the Shatt al-Arab. Largely populated by Shiites who are not allied with Saddam Hussein, it was the site of sporadic resistance when British troops entered in April. For 10 points—name this strategically important city, the most populous city south of Baghdad in Iraq.
Founded in 636 by caliph Umar I, it was occupied by the British during World War I.
{Basra}