Chap 8 Political Geography

Quick Chapter Overview We talked about Nation vs State vs Country and used George Demko’s definitions, I find this a better set of tools then provided by Rubenstein. Make sure you know Demko’s definitions, review that powerpoint

8.1 The definition here of a State is similar to Demko’s but not as complete, read this and compare with Demko’s in the Powerpoint using Japan as an illustration

Anacrtica: Not a Soveriegn State – at least not for now

8.2 As you read about ancient states and city states does this make you reconsider how you think about Afghanistan or Somolia? Is tribalism still strong in these places? Note that most European nation-states were created in the 19th and 20th centuries. Know what a colony is. Does the US have any colonies? Where else are there colonies?

Ancient city states and empires strongly linked to the environment (i Ancient city states and empires strongly linked to the environment (i.e. food production)

I realize you can’t read this map, but in the book what is this a map of?

8.3 Review the three reasons for establishing colonies. Note that number two was the most important  Note that most current colonies are rather small isolated islands.

8.4 Shape The shape and location of a state both represents a historical heritage and indicates possible challenges to future stability. Why?  

Elongated State

Fragmented State

Perforated State

Prorupted States

Compact States

8.5 Boundaries Physical features and geometric have mainly been used to create political boundaries. This practice has both pluses and minuses, what might these be? Such boundaries may or may not reflect cultural boundaries.  

Mountain Boundaries Mo

Historical Instability of Desert Boundaries

Water Boundary

Geometric Boundaries

Cultural Boundaries

8.6 Know the difference of a unitary and federal state. What is the US and why? What about Canada or China?

http://www.talkingproud.us/ImagesHistory/VimyRidge/Map1867.jpg

8.7 All you need to know about how “representative government” works or doesn’t work. About 4 years ago Californians via a ballot referendum were given the chance to change to an Iowa type system, they voted it down.

The Original Gerrymander

Review the various tricks for modern Gerrymandering

Booo… no Gerrymandering in Iowa

Hurrah!!! Gerrymandering is not an threatened species in Florida or Georgia

2008 California stopped Gerrymandering!!! In November 2008, California voters passed Proposition 11, authorizing a state redistricting commission.[ While the long-term results will bear out over time, independent studies by the Public Policy Institute of California, the National Journal, and Ballotpedia have shown that California now has some of the most competitive districts in the nation, creating opportunities for new elected officials.

8.8 Supra-National organizations, is this the wave of the future in a globalizing world?

8.9 Terrorism, one way that non-state entities attempt to effect state activities. Are there others?