The term Transjordan refers to the historical region located to the east of the Jordan River, forming the bulk of what is the modern-day Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. While the name is no longer used in official capacity, understanding where Transjordan was is essential to understanding the geopolitics, history, and culture of the Middle East. This region is not a vague concept but a specific territory with defined borders that have evolved over centuries.
Geographical Location and Borders
At its core, Transjordan occupied the area east of the Jordan River and the Dead Sea. To visualize where is Transjordan geographically, one must look at the landscape west of the Arabian Plateau. The region stretched from the Jordan River in the west, acting as a natural linear boundary, to the eastern reaches of the Arabian Desert. Its northern border met the Syrian Desert near modern-day Jordan’s border with Saudi Arabia, while its southern extent blended into the Arabian Peninsula.
The Great Rift Valley and the Jordan River
The Jordan River is the definitive geographical feature of this region. Nestled within the Great Rift Valley, the river flows southward, and the highlands to its east constitute Transjordan. This eastern plateau averages about 2,000 feet above sea level, significantly higher than the Jordan Valley floor, creating a rugged and mountainous terrain distinct from the flat plains of the west.
Historical Context and Evolution
Historically, the territory was known as the Decapolis during Roman times, but the modern identity began to solidify after World War I. The Ottoman Empire collapsed, and the region was designated as part of the British Mandate for Palestine. However, the British government sought to create separate administrative entities. In 1921, recognizing the distinct tribal and geographical realities, the area east of the Jordan was separated, leading to the establishment of the Emirate of Transjordan.
Political Boundaries and the Hashemite Kingdom
The question of where is Transjordan administratively was answered in 1946 when the Emirate gained full independence and became the Hashemite Kingdom of Transjordan. Shortly thereafter, the country dropped "Transjordan" from its name, becoming simply Jordan. The borders were largely drawn by British and French mandates, shaping the kingdom into the stable nation-state that exists today, while the western bank remained the internationally recognized boundary of Israel.
Modern Relevance and Legacy
Although the name Transjordan is largely historical, the region remains vital. Understanding the geography of Transjordan is key to understanding contemporary Jordan, a country that hosts a large population of refugees and serves as a critical political stabilizer in a volatile region. The cities of Amman, Zarqa, and Karak are modern hubs that grew from the foundations of these ancient highlands.
Summary of Location
To summarize where Transjordan is, it is the historical region comprising the modern state of Jordan, situated east of the Jordan River. It is bounded by:
