SSWG6c Analyze the importance of Europe’s coastal location, climatic characteristics, and river systems regarding population, economic development, and world influence.

“I can” statement (learning target) I have considered how Europe’s relation to the coast, climate, and river systems has led to its large population, economic growth, and world influence.

Relation to the coast (Population) Most heavily populated cities are along the coast. Early Europeans depended on coast for survival. Paved the way for future population settlements.

Relation to the Coast (economic development) Many cities that are along the coast have seaports. This has been instrumental in expanding the economy in that particular country by adding to the infrastructure. Many industries and services depend on proximity to the coast in Europe, so that goods and services can be shipped quickly and inexpensively.

Relation to the Coast (world Influence) Many coastal European countries also expanded outside of Europe through the use of navies. Because of this many of these countries influenced the world around them through trade and military conquest.

Climate (Population) Many people tend to stay near mild temperate climates. Because of this many people live along the coast in Northern Europe. In Western, Eastern and Southern Europe climate temperatures are more comfortable, allowing for people to not have to live near the coast.

Climate (economic development) Because of its mild and temperate climate and high levels of precipitation, most of Europe is suitable for agriculture.

Climate (World Influence) Because of the mild climate and natural resources available to Europe it has been able to experience a rapid growth by being able to sustain its growing population through industry and agricultural means. Thus allowing for Europe to be heavily involved in World affairs and not having solely concentrate on national issues.

River Systems (Populations) Many of Europe's ancient civilizations settled near or around river basins. Many of Europe's cities to this date are still settled near rivers. Many of Europe’s cities follow a linear settlement pattern on major river. This allows quick and easy access to other European countries or out to sea. Power from rivers can also be used to power cities and towns using hydroelectricity and dams.

River Systems (economic development) Europe has made many canals connecting rivers to other rivers and seaports. Because of this rivers are extremely important to the various European countries economies. River systems get goods and services to other European cities and/or seaports to ship internationally. River systems also help to carry raw products to manufactures to turn into finished products to be sold in markets world wide.

River systems (World Influence) Many countries that would other be land locked have access to seaports and oceans. Because of economical development in these countries thanks in part to the river systems, many of European countries along the rivers have gain international influence. Many countries that do not have an abundance in raw materials can still be a leader in different areas of manufacturing due to river systems being able to transport goods up stream.