Short answers, pulled from the story.
The name Kuwait is a diminutive form of the Arabic word for fortress, reflecting its ancient origins as a strategic stronghold built near the water. This linguistic echo highlights the region's history as a defensive position and maritime hub.
Oil was first discovered in the Burgan field on the 22nd of February 1938, marking the beginning of a new era for the nation. This discovery transformed Kuwait from a pearl and trading economy into a major oil exporter.
Kuwait became independent on the 1st of June 1961 with the end of the British protectorate. Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salim Al-Sabah became Emir of Kuwait at that time, and the national day is celebrated on the 25th of February, the anniversary of his coronation.
Iraqi forces invaded and annexed Kuwait in 1990 without warning, installing a puppet regime under Saddam Hussein. The occupation ended on the 26th of February 1991 after a U.S. and Saudi Arabia-led international coalition expelled Iraqi forces during the Gulf War.
Women won the right to vote and run in elections in 2005, marking a significant step forward for gender equality in the country. By 2013, 53% of Kuwaiti women participated in the labor force, giving Kuwait the highest female citizen participation in the workforce of any GCC country.