Retreating Iraqi forces set over 600 Kuwaiti oil wells ablaze during the Gulf War — creating an environmental catastrophe that took 8 months and $1.5 billion to extinguish. Kuwait is one of the world's most fascinating small nations: tiny in area, enormous in wealth, and shaped by one of the 20th century's most dramatic military campaigns.
Each round presents 10 randomized multiple-choice questions drawn from a pool of 50, so every playthrough is different. You get instant feedback with explanations after each answer, plus a shareable score at the end.
You'll explore Iraq's invasion and Operation Desert Storm, the infamous Highway of Death, Kuwait's Burgan oil field, the Kuwait Investment Authority (the world's oldest sovereign wealth fund), Kuwait's pearl diving history, its role as the first Gulf state to hold elections, and the diwaniya social tradition.
Iraq invaded Kuwait on August 2, 1990, under Saddam Hussein. A US-led coalition launched Operation Desert Storm in January 1991 and liberated Kuwait within 100 hours of ground combat. As Iraqi forces retreated, they set over 600 oil wells on fire — an environmental disaster that took 8 months to fully extinguish.
Yes — Kuwait is one of the wealthiest countries per capita in the world. It sits atop about 6% of the world's proven oil reserves, and the Burgan Field is the second-largest oil field on Earth. Citizens pay no income tax and receive free education and healthcare. The Kuwait Investment Authority, founded in 1953, is the world's oldest sovereign wealth fund.
Kuwait is among the hottest countries on the planet. In July 2016, the town of Mitribah recorded 53.9°C (129°F) — the highest reliably recorded temperature in Asia and one of the highest ever recorded on Earth. Summers regularly exceed 45°C, and Kuwait relies almost entirely on desalination for its fresh water supply.
Last updated: March 2026