Bizerte
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Bizerte is a town as well as a state (governorate) in Tunisia. Arabic: Binzart
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History
Bizerte is known as the oldest and most european city in Tunisia. It was founded around 1000 B.C.E by Phoenicians from Tyre. It is also known as the last town to remain under French control after the rest of the country won its independence from France.
Due to its strategic location on the Mediterranean, France wanted to keep control of its Naval Base in Bizerte. In turn, the Tunisian government wanted France out and the base closed. Undaunted, The French would stay in control of the city for several years after the rest of the country was handed over in 1956. In 1961 the Tunisian Navy blocked the base. The resulting military clashes would lead to more than 1,000 Tunisians killed. The French finally abandoned Bizerte on 10th October 1963, seven years after Tunisia had declared its independence.
A brief article on Bizerte with a nice timelime can be found at "Encyclopedia of the Orient" (http://lexicorient.com/cgi-bin/eo-direct-frame.pl?http://i-cias.com/e.o/bizerte.htm|)
Geography
Bizerte is close to both Sardinia and Sicily.
Economy
Bizerte's economy is very diversified. There are all types of military bases and year round tourism, but not comparable to the eastern coast of Tunisia. There is manufacturing(textile, auto parts, cookware), fishing, fruits and vegetables, and wheat.
Bizerte is especially well known for the quality of its grapes and the wine made from them.
Miscellaneous
Bizerte is famous for its beautiful forests and beaches.
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