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Shiraz Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge

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Study Guide: Shiraz: History, Geography, and Culture

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Shiraz: History, Geography, and Culture Study Guide

Origins and Early History

The earliest known reference to Shiraz, found on Elamite clay tablets, names the city as 'Shiraz'.

Answer: False

Explanation: The earliest known reference to Shiraz, documented on Elamite clay tablets, identifies the city by the name 'Tirazish', not 'Shiraz'.

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The modern city of Shiraz was founded during the Sasanian dynasty and later restored by the Umayyad Caliphate in 693 CE.

Answer: True

Explanation: Historical records indicate that the modern iteration of Shiraz was established during the Sasanian dynasty and subsequently underwent restoration by the Umayyad Caliphate in 693 CE.

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The earliest known name for Shiraz, Tirazish, is documented on Babylonian cuneiform tablets.

Answer: False

Explanation: The earliest known name for Shiraz, Tirazish, is documented on Elamite clay tablets, not Babylonian cuneiform tablets.

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The Buyid dynasty made Shiraz their capital and developed it into a major economic and cultural hub.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Buyid dynasty established Shiraz as their capital, fostering its growth into a significant economic and cultural center during their rule.

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The Qur'an Gate in Shiraz was originally built to house sacred texts from the Safavid era.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Qur'an Gate, part of the Buyid dynasty's city wall, historically housed two hand-written Qur'ans, not sacred texts from the Safavid era.

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Shiraz is historically known as Pars or Persis, reflecting its location in the Fars province.

Answer: True

Explanation: Shiraz is historically recognized by names such as Pars or Persis, which directly relate to its geographical position within the Fars province.

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The city of Shiraz is named after a mythical king named Tahmuras.

Answer: False

Explanation: While some native interpretations suggest a derivation from a mythical figure, the most widely accepted origin of the name Shiraz points to the Elamite name 'Shirrazish'.

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Which historical name is associated with Shiraz, reflecting its location in the Fars province?

Answer: Pars or Persis

Explanation: Shiraz is historically associated with the names Pars or Persis, reflecting its geographical context within the Fars province.

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What is the earliest known name for Shiraz, documented on Elamite clay tablets dating back to 2000 BCE?

Answer: Tirazish

Explanation: The earliest known name for Shiraz, as documented on Elamite clay tablets from approximately 2000 BCE, is Tirazish.

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Under which dynasties did Shiraz rise to prominence as a cultural and political center in medieval times?

Answer: Saffarid and Buyid

Explanation: Shiraz achieved significant prominence as a cultural and political center during the medieval period under the Saffarid and Buyid dynasties.

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The earliest known reference to Shiraz, Tirazish, was found on which type of artifact?

Answer: Elamite clay tablets

Explanation: The earliest known reference to Shiraz, identified as Tirazish, was discovered on Elamite clay tablets.

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During the Buyid dynasty's rule, Shiraz was developed with significant construction, including:

Answer: Libraries, hospitals, mosques, and palaces

Explanation: Under the Buyid dynasty, Shiraz experienced substantial development, marked by the construction of significant public works such as libraries, hospitals, mosques, and palaces.

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The Qur'an Gate in Shiraz, part of the Buyid dynasty's city wall, historically:

Answer: Housed two hand-written Qur'ans.

Explanation: Historically, the Qur'an Gate, constructed as part of the Buyid dynasty's city wall, served as a repository for two hand-written Qur'ans.

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Shiraz is historically known by which of the following names?

Answer: Tirazish

Explanation: Historically, Shiraz has been known by names such as Tirazish, reflecting its ancient origins.

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The name Shiraz is believed by some native writers to derive from:

Answer: A son of the mythical king Tahmuras

Explanation: Some native writers propose that the name Shiraz derives from a son of the mythical king Tahmuras.

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Dynastic Capitals and Cultural Flourishing

Shiraz became a significant cultural and political center primarily during the Safavid dynasty.

Answer: False

Explanation: While Shiraz held importance during the Safavid dynasty, its rise to significant cultural and political prominence occurred earlier, notably under the Saffarid and Buyid dynasties.

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The celebrated Persian poets Hafez and Saadi were born in Shiraz.

Answer: True

Explanation: Shiraz is recognized as the birthplace of the esteemed Persian poets Hafez and Saadi, contributing to its reputation as a city of literary significance.

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During the 18th century, Shiraz experienced a population drop after being sacked following a revolt against Nader Shah.

Answer: True

Explanation: Historical accounts confirm that Shiraz suffered a significant population decline in the 18th century subsequent to being sacked after a revolt against Nader Shah.

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The Arg of Karim Khan and the Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque are major tourist attractions located in Shiraz.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Arg of Karim Khan citadel and the Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque are indeed prominent tourist destinations within Shiraz, showcasing its rich architectural and historical heritage.

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Traditional crafts in Shiraz include silverware and the weaving of kilims, known locally as 'jajim'.

Answer: False

Explanation: While silverware is a traditional craft, kilims woven in Shiraz are typically referred to as 'gilim', not 'jajim'.

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Shiraz is nicknamed the 'City of Gardens' due to its historical role as a center for astronomical studies.

Answer: False

Explanation: Shiraz is known as the 'City of Gardens' due to its numerous gardens and verdant spaces, not its historical role in astronomical studies.

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Qutb al-Din al-Shirazi, a 13th-century scholar, is one of the notable scientific figures associated with Shiraz.

Answer: True

Explanation: Qutb al-Din al-Shirazi, a prominent 13th-century scholar, is indeed recognized as a significant scientific figure associated with Shiraz.

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During the Safavid Empire, Shiraz served as the primary capital of Persia.

Answer: False

Explanation: During the Safavid Empire, Shiraz functioned as a provincial capital, not the primary imperial capital of Persia.

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Shiraz is home to Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and Shiraz University of Technology.

Answer: True

Explanation: Shiraz hosts significant higher education institutions, including Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and Shiraz University of Technology.

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Shiraz earned the designation 'Dar al-'Ilm' ('House of Knowledge') during the 11th century.

Answer: False

Explanation: Shiraz earned the designation 'Dar al-'Ilm' ('House of Knowledge') during the 13th century, reflecting its prominence as a center for arts and sciences.

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The Pahlavi dynasty focused on enhancing Shiraz's infrastructure by building modern highways.

Answer: False

Explanation: While the Pahlavi dynasty contributed to Shiraz's cultural landscape, notably by constructing the tombs of Sa'di and Hafiz, the primary focus on modern highways is not explicitly attributed to them in this context.

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Shiraz served as the capital of Iran during the Zand dynasty from 1750 to 1794.

Answer: True

Explanation: Shiraz functioned as the capital of Iran during the Zand dynasty's rule, spanning the period from 1750 to 1794.

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Traditional Shiraz architecture includes elements like *ab anbars* (water reservoirs) and *iwan* (enclosed courtyards).

Answer: False

Explanation: Traditional Shiraz architecture features elements like *ab anbars* (water reservoirs) and *iwan* (vaulted halls or porticoes). While *iwan* are significant architectural features, they are not typically described as enclosed courtyards.

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Shiraz flourished as a center for arts and letters during the 13th century, attracting many scholars.

Answer: True

Explanation: The 13th century marked a period of significant flourishing for Shiraz as a center for arts and letters, attracting a substantial number of scholars and intellectuals.

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The Vakil Bazaar and Vakil Bath are historical sites that are no longer considered tourist attractions in Shiraz.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Vakil Bazaar and Vakil Bath remain important historical sites and are actively considered significant tourist attractions in Shiraz.

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Shiraz's population in the mid-18th century had dropped significantly to around 55,000 people.

Answer: True

Explanation: Historical demographic data indicates that Shiraz's population had indeed declined substantially by the mid-18th century, reportedly reaching approximately 55,000 inhabitants.

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The nickname 'The Athens of Iran' for Shiraz is attributed to its historical role as a center for military strategy.

Answer: False

Explanation: The appellation 'The Athens of Iran' for Shiraz stems from its historical prominence as a center for arts and letters, not military strategy.

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The Qajar dynasty moved the national capital from Shiraz to Isfahan.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Qajar dynasty relocated the national capital from Shiraz to Tehran, not Isfahan.

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Shiraz is known for its traditional crafts, including the weaving of pile carpets and kilims.

Answer: True

Explanation: Shiraz is recognized for its traditional crafts, which include the production of pile carpets and kilims.

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Shiraz is famously known as the city of poets, literature, and flowers, and is the birthplace of which two celebrated Persian poets?

Answer: Hafez and Saadi

Explanation: Shiraz, renowned as the city of poets, literature, and flowers, is the birthplace of the celebrated Persian poets Hafez and Saadi.

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Which historical period saw Shiraz lose prominence after being the capital under Karim Khan Zand, due to the Qajar dynasty moving the national capital elsewhere?

Answer: 18th Century

Explanation: Following its period as the capital under Karim Khan Zand in the latter half of the 18th century, Shiraz experienced a decline in national prominence when the Qajar dynasty relocated the capital to Tehran.

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Which of the following is a major tourist attraction in Shiraz, known for its citadel?

Answer: Arg of Karim Khan

Explanation: The Arg of Karim Khan, a significant citadel, is a major tourist attraction located in Shiraz.

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Which traditional craft from Shiraz involves intricate mosaic work with triangular designs?

Answer: Inlaid mosaic work

Explanation: The traditional craft of inlaid mosaic work, characterized by intricate triangular designs, is associated with Shiraz.

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Shiraz is nicknamed the 'City of Gardens' primarily because of:

Answer: Its numerous historical gardens like Eram Garden

Explanation: The nickname 'City of Gardens' for Shiraz is primarily attributed to its numerous historical and culturally significant gardens, such as the renowned Eram Garden.

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Who is Gholam A. Peyman, mentioned as a notable figure from Shiraz?

Answer: The inventor of LASIK

Explanation: Gholam A. Peyman is identified as a notable figure from Shiraz who is credited with inventing LASIK eye surgery procedure.

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During the Safavid Empire, Shiraz functioned as:

Answer: A provincial capital

Explanation: During the Safavid Empire, Shiraz served the function of a provincial capital.

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Which of the following is NOT listed as a major university located in or near Shiraz?

Answer: Isfahan University of Technology

Explanation: Among the listed institutions, Isfahan University of Technology is not located in or near Shiraz; the others are.

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The designation 'Dar al-'Elm' ('House of Knowledge') for Shiraz reflects its importance during the 13th century as a center for:

Answer: Arts and sciences

Explanation: The designation 'Dar al-'Elm' ('House of Knowledge') for Shiraz reflects its 13th-century importance as a center for the cultivation of arts and sciences.

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The Pahlavi dynasty contributed to Shiraz's cultural landscape by:

Answer: Constructing and presenting the tombs of Sa'di and Hafiz.

Explanation: The Pahlavi dynasty made significant contributions to Shiraz's cultural landscape, notably through the construction and public presentation of the tombs of the renowned poets Sa'di and Hafiz.

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Which dynasty made Shiraz its capital from 1750 to 1794?

Answer: Zand

Explanation: The Zand dynasty designated Shiraz as its capital city during the period from 1750 to 1794.

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Traditional Shiraz architecture includes elements like *ab anbars* and *windcatchers*. What is the function of *windcatchers*?

Answer: To provide natural ventilation

Explanation: In traditional Shiraz architecture, *windcatchers* serve the functional purpose of providing natural ventilation within structures.

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Which of the following is NOT a traditional architectural element found in Shiraz?

Answer: Minaret

Explanation: While *ab anbars*, *iwan*, and *shabestan* are traditional architectural elements found in Shiraz, *minarets* are not specifically listed as such in the provided context.

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The nickname 'The Athens of Iran' is associated with Shiraz due to its flourishing as a center for:

Answer: Arts and letters

Explanation: The nickname 'The Athens of Iran' is associated with Shiraz owing to its historical flourishing as a significant center for arts and letters.

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What historical event led to damage to Shiraz's buildings and a significant population drop in the 18th century?

Answer: A revolt against Nader Shah, resulting in the city being sacked

Explanation: A revolt against Nader Shah, which resulted in the city being sacked, led to considerable damage to Shiraz's buildings and a significant population decline in the 18th century.

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Which of the following is a notable academic from Shiraz known for inventing LASIK?

Answer: Gholam A. Peyman

Explanation: Gholam A. Peyman is identified as a notable academic from Shiraz who is credited with inventing LASIK.

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Shiraz served as a provincial capital during which empire?

Answer: Safavid Empire

Explanation: Shiraz functioned as a provincial capital during the period of the Safavid Empire.

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The designation 'Dar al-'Elm' signifies Shiraz's historical role as:

Answer: A center of knowledge and learning

Explanation: The designation 'Dar al-'Elm,' meaning 'House of Knowledge,' signifies Shiraz's historical role as a prominent center for knowledge and learning.

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Which dynasty's capital was Shiraz from 1750 to 1794?

Answer: Zand

Explanation: Shiraz served as the capital for the Zand dynasty during the period spanning from 1750 to 1794.

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What is a traditional architectural element used for ventilation in Shiraz?

Answer: Windcatcher

Explanation: A traditional architectural element utilized for ventilation in Shiraz is the windcatcher.

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Geography and Climate

Shiraz is geographically located in southwestern Iran, situated at the foot of the Alborz Mountains.

Answer: False

Explanation: Shiraz is geographically situated in southwestern Iran at the foot of the Zagros Mountains, not the Alborz Mountains.

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Shiraz experiences a tropical climate with consistently high temperatures year-round.

Answer: False

Explanation: Shiraz does not have a tropical climate; it is characterized by a semi-arid climate with distinct seasons, including hot summers and cool winters.

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Shiraz's climate is classified under the Köppen system as a humid subtropical climate (Cfa).

Answer: False

Explanation: Shiraz's climate is classified under the Köppen system as semi-arid (BSh/BSk), not humid subtropical (Cfa).

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Shiraz is situated at the foot of the Zagros Mountains, near the seasonal Dry River.

Answer: True

Explanation: Geographically, Shiraz is located at the foot of the Zagros Mountains and is situated near the seasonal Dry River.

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Shiraz's climate is characterized by significant rainfall concentrated in the summer months.

Answer: False

Explanation: Shiraz's climate is characterized by rainfall primarily concentrated in the winter months, not the summer.

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Shiraz has a moderate climate, classified as semi-arid, with hot summers and cool winters.

Answer: True

Explanation: Shiraz is characterized by a semi-arid climate, featuring hot summers and cool winters, which is considered a moderate climatic profile for the region.

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The lowest recorded temperature in Shiraz was -14.0°C (6.8°F) in July 1973.

Answer: False

Explanation: The lowest recorded temperature in Shiraz was -14.0°C (6.8°F), but this occurred in January 1973, not July.

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Shiraz is situated geographically within Iran in which region?

Answer: Southwestern Iran, at the foot of the Zagros Mountains

Explanation: Shiraz is geographically situated in southwestern Iran, located at the base of the Zagros Mountains.

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Shiraz's climate is classified as semi-arid, characterized by:

Answer: Hot summers and cool, dry winters

Explanation: The semi-arid climate of Shiraz is principally characterized by hot summers and cool, relatively dry winters.

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What is the Köppen climate classification of Shiraz?

Answer: Semi-arid (BSh/BSk)

Explanation: According to the Köppen climate classification system, Shiraz falls under the semi-arid category, designated as BSh or BSk.

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Shiraz's geographical setting includes proximity to a seasonal river known as:

Answer: The Dry River

Explanation: Shiraz's geographical setting is characterized by its proximity to a seasonal river identified as the Dry River.

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What is the average annual rainfall in Shiraz, according to the provided data?

Answer: Approximately 320 mm

Explanation: The provided data indicates that the average annual rainfall in Shiraz is approximately 320 millimeters.

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What is the highest recorded temperature mentioned for Shiraz?

Answer: 43.4°C

Explanation: The highest recorded temperature for Shiraz, as mentioned in the data, is 43.4°C.

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Economy and Modern Development

Shiraz is currently ranked as the fifth most populous city in Iran.

Answer: True

Explanation: Based on demographic data, Shiraz is recognized as the fifth most populous city in Iran.

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Shiraz's economy is primarily driven by agriculture and tourism.

Answer: False

Explanation: While agriculture plays a role, Shiraz's economy is diversified, encompassing industries such as cement production, textiles, electronics, and rug manufacturing, in addition to tourism.

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Modern infrastructure projects in Shiraz include the restoration of historical landmarks and the development of a metro system.

Answer: True

Explanation: Contemporary infrastructure development in Shiraz encompasses the restoration of historical sites and the ongoing construction of a metro system.

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The opening of the Suez Canal negatively impacted Shiraz's economy by reducing the export of cash crops.

Answer: False

Explanation: The opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 actually facilitated the export of cash crops from Shiraz, such as opium and cotton, while also increasing the import of European goods.

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Shiraz International Airport is the primary transportation hub serving the city.

Answer: True

Explanation: Shiraz International Airport serves as the principal transportation gateway for the city, facilitating air travel and connectivity.

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The Shiraz Special Economic Zone (SEEZ) was established to promote agricultural development.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Shiraz Special Economic Zone (SEEZ) was established primarily to foster manufacturing, particularly in the electronics sector, rather than agricultural development.

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The Persian Gulf Complex in Shiraz is recognized as the world's largest mall based on its number of shops.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Persian Gulf Complex in Shiraz is noted for its scale, being recognized as the world's largest mall in terms of the quantity of retail establishments it contains.

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Shiraz is a major center for Iran's electronic industries, accounting for a substantial portion of the country's electronic investment.

Answer: True

Explanation: Shiraz plays a pivotal role in Iran's electronic sector, reportedly hosting a significant majority of the nation's investment in electronic industries.

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What is the current population of Shiraz according to the 2021 census?

Answer: 1,995,500 people

Explanation: According to the 2021 census data, the population of Shiraz was recorded as 1,995,500 individuals.

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Which of the following is NOT listed as a significant industry in Shiraz's economy?

Answer: Petrochemicals

Explanation: While Shiraz has a diverse industrial base including cement, textiles, and electronics, petrochemicals are not listed as a primary significant industry.

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What is a key aspect of modern infrastructure development in Shiraz mentioned in the source?

Answer: Development of a metro system

Explanation: A key aspect of modern infrastructure development in Shiraz highlighted in the source material is the ongoing development of a metro system.

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How did the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 affect Shiraz's economy?

Answer: It facilitated the import of European goods and boosted cash crop exports.

Explanation: The opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 had a dual effect on Shiraz's economy, facilitating the import of European goods while simultaneously boosting the export of cash crops.

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Which of the following is mentioned as a mode of transportation infrastructure in Shiraz?

Answer: Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)

Explanation: Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is mentioned as a component of Shiraz's transportation infrastructure.

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The Shiraz Special Economic Zone (SEEZ) was established primarily to promote:

Answer: Manufacturing, especially in electronics

Explanation: The Shiraz Special Economic Zone (SEEZ) was established with the primary objective of promoting manufacturing, with a particular focus on the electronics sector.

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What distinguishes the Persian Gulf Complex in Shiraz as a shopping destination?

Answer: It is recognized as the world's largest mall by number of shops.

Explanation: The Persian Gulf Complex in Shiraz is distinguished as a shopping destination by its recognition as the world's largest mall based on the sheer number of retail establishments it contains.

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What is the primary purpose of the Shiraz Special Economic Zone (SEEZ)?

Answer: To foster manufacturing, particularly in electronics

Explanation: The primary purpose for the establishment of the Shiraz Special Economic Zone (SEEZ) is to foster manufacturing, with a specific focus on the electronics industry.

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Social and Religious Significance

Shiraz is considered a significant site for the Baháʼí Faith because it is the birthplace of Baháʼu'lláh.

Answer: False

Explanation: Shiraz is significant for the Baháʼí Faith as the birthplace of the Báb, not Baháʼu'lláh. The Báb declared His mission in Shiraz in 1844.

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A pogrom occurred in Shiraz in 1910, targeting the Jewish quarter and resulting in significant casualties and property loss.

Answer: True

Explanation: Historical records document a pogrom in Shiraz in 1910 that targeted the Jewish community, leading to casualties and property destruction.

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The house where the Báb declared his mission in Shiraz was destroyed in 1979 and later converted into a public square.

Answer: True

Explanation: The structure in Shiraz associated with the Báb's declaration of mission was indeed demolished in 1979 and subsequently transformed into a public square.

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The Báb first declared his mission in Shiraz in 1844, making the city a significant pilgrimage site.

Answer: True

Explanation: The declaration of the Báb's mission occurred in Shiraz in 1844, establishing the city as a site of pilgrimage for adherents of the Baháʼí Faith.

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What is the significance of Shiraz for the Baháʼí Faith?

Answer: It is where the Báb first declared his mission in 1844.

Explanation: Shiraz holds significant importance for the Baháʼí Faith as the location where the Báb first proclaimed His mission in 1844.

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What was the primary cause cited for the 1910 pogrom in Shiraz?

Answer: False rumors of ritual murder

Explanation: The primary cause cited for the 1910 pogrom in Shiraz was the dissemination of false rumors concerning ritual murder.

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The house in Shiraz associated with the Báb's mission was destroyed in what year?

Answer: 1979

Explanation: The structure in Shiraz linked to the Báb's mission was destroyed in the year 1979.

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What historical event significantly impacted Shiraz's Jewish quarter in 1910?

Answer: A pogrom incited by false rumors

Explanation: In 1910, Shiraz's Jewish quarter was significantly impacted by a pogrom that was incited by false rumors.

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