Chapter 8: Political Geography Borders and Boundaries between Countries

Basics In the 20th Century, there were two major regions (political) US allies or Soviet Union allies Physical geography is easy to see but political geography is NOT but it is very important The world is constantly changing and the US has lost political influence Many countries are combining military, economic, and political authority to gain strength (e.g. EU) This has encouraged local diversity and a desire for local control

KI 1: Where Are States Located? Problems defining states Sovereignty Korea China & Taiwan Western Sahara Polar regions Varying Size of States Development of the State Concept Ancient & medieval states Colonies

KI 2: Why Do Boundaries Between States Cause Problems? Shapes of States 5 Basic Shapes Compact Elongated Prorupted Perforated Fragmented Landlocked states

KI 2: Why Do Boundaries Between States Cause Problems? Types of Boundaries Physical boundaries Desert, mountain, water Cultural boundaries Geometric, religious, language Frontiers Boundaries Inside States Unitary & federal Trend toward federal government Electoral geography

KI 3: Why Do States Cooperate with Each Other? Political & Military Cooperation The United Nations Regional military alliances Two superpowers Cooperation in Europe Other regional organizations Economic Cooperation

KI 4: Why Has Terrorism Increased? Terrorism by individuals & organizations Terrorism against Americans 9/11 Al-Qaeda State support for terrorism Libya Afghanistan Iraq Iran Pakistan