The Qatar Digital Library (QDL) has uploaded half a million images capturing the history of the Middle East. This initiative is a collaboration between the British Library and the Qatar Foundation. The images span over 250 years, dating back to the mid-18th century, and are free to access. This vast collection includes maps, photographs, letters, and recordings, all of which provide an insight into the social, political, and cultural history of the region. The QDL’s goal is to democratise access to information, allowing anyone with an internet connection to explore this rich history. The library also provides a platform for scholars to share their interpretations and insights. This open-source project is a significant step towards making historical records more accessible and fostering global understanding of Middle Eastern history. The QDL continues to expand its collection, with more documents and images set to be digitised and shared in the future.

Go to source article: http://www.yourmiddleeast.com/culture/open-source-of-500000-images-takes-you-back-through-middle-eastern-history_31230