Lebanon Fast Facts
Here is a look at Lebanon, a Middle Eastern country bordering Syria, Israel and the Mediterranean Sea.
About Lebanon
Area: 10,400 sq km (slightly larger than Connecticut)
Population: 5,261,372 (July 2021 est.)
Median age: 33.7 years
Religion: Muslim 61.1%, Christian 33.7%, Druze 5.2% (2018 est.)
Timeline
1918 – After the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, France gains control of the area that comprises modern-day Lebanon.
November
1943 – Lebanon proclaims independence.
1948-1975 – A large number of Palestinian refugees settle in Lebanon after the creation of Israel in May 1948. The frequent clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian fighters unsettle the country. Also at times, the Lebanese army fights battles against the Palestinians, causing further unrest.