Geography of the World: Asia Mr. Meester World History

Map Of Asia

Major Regions There are 3 major regions found in Asia. The Middle East, North Asia, & Southeast Asia.

Northern Asia Northern Asia is one of the most physically diverse areas in the world. It has 2 major Mtn. ranges; the Urals & Himalayas. The Himalayas are the tallest in the world. The Urals are the boundary of Europe & Asia. Major waterways include Lake Baykal, (world’s deepest) Yellow, & Yangtze rivers. The Gobi is the area’s largest desert. Contains everything from Tundra to Tropics.

Physical Map of N. Asia

North Asian People N. Asia is dominated by 2 countries; Russia & China. Russia is 1st in land & China is 1st in people. (1.3 Billion) You find many diverse religions, including Orthodox Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, and Taoism.

North Asian Economics China, Russia, South Korea & Japan dominate the economy of N. Asia. They are all modern industrialized nations. Other nations, such as the former Soviet Republics, are still developing and depend on natural resources and agriculture for most of their income.

North Asia

Problems in North Asia Both Russia and China have been criticized for human rights violations. Japan is fighting to overcome a weak economy and natural disasters. A nuclear North Korea may destabilized the region.

Southern Asia Southern Asia is physically made up of mainly jungle, but mountains are also common. In Southeast Asia, you find many archipelagos or strings of small islands. The largest river in S. Asia is the Ganges of India.

Southern Asia

People in Southern Asia India, the world 2nd largest nation, dominates S. Asia. Much of the rest of S. Asia is made up of the Southeastern nations such as Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and others. The most common religions in this area are Islam & Hindu.

Southeast Asian Economics Most of Southeast Asia are still developing their economies. In the 80’s & 90’s many nations had huge economic growth only to have their markets collapse. India is now leading the way with a large well educated workforce & a diverse economy.

Problems in Southern Asia Rivalry & War between India and Pakistan continue. Both have nuclear weapons Islamic fundamentalists groups are growing. Sweat-shop labor exploitation is common throughout the region. Deforestation is destroying the rainforests.