1 This is the last working paper version of an article that was later published as “Middle East and North Africa” in Baten, J (ed.), A History of the Global Economy. 1500 to the Present. Cambridge University Press, 2016. This book covers the economic history of all world regions in a reprentative way, using similar indicators for the interesting development of the regions – and provides insights for today. Its modest prize (ca. 20 British Pounds) should encourage a wide readership of students, scholars and the interested general public.