D. Damascus is often claimed to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, and evidence exists of a settlement in the wider Barada basin dating back to 9000 BC. However, within the area of Damascus there is no evidence for large-scale settlement until about 4000 years ago.

Q: There is a growing anger among Syria's Sunni Muslims who say they are being targeted by government forces with impunity. The majority of Syrians are . . .

A. Christians

B. Druze

C. Shia Muslims

D. Sunni Muslims

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D. Druze account for 3 percent of the population, while Christians are 10 percent, Shia 12 percent and Sunnis 74 percent. Syria's ruler, President Bashar al-Assad, is a member of a Shia sect.

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Q: How did Bashar al-Assad gain power in Syria?

A. Inherited it

B. Revolution

C. Coup d'etat

D. Free elections

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A. His father Hafez al-Assad ruled Syria for 29 years and systematically prepared Bashar for taking over power when he died. Bashar al-Assad has been "elected" president twice, running unopposed both times. During the Syrian uprising, demonstrators have demanded his resignation.

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Q: Officials of which nation have threatened to deny entry to Olympic athletes with connections to the Assad regime?

A. Argentina

B. Britain

C. China

D. Denmark

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B. London is hosting this summer's Olympic Games. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has said Syrian delegation members with connections to the regime will be denied entry. Syria said Britain "has no right" to deny their athletes access.

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