Unit 4: Europe

Western Europe The Population Reference Bureau estimates that the United Kingdom will have the largest population by 2050, surpassing that of both Germany and France. Historians typically point to the ancient Greeks as the founders of Western European culture. Europe was politically divided into Eastern and Western Europe during the Cold War.

Landforms and Waterways p.334

Climate Warm winds off the ocean are the primary factor that shapes the region’s climate. Western Europe is located at northern latitudes, but it has a milder climate than other places at the same latitudes.

Climate Temperate lowlands- Most of Western Europe lies in the path of the Westerlies, strong winds that travel from west to east. The Westerlies blow a constant stream of warm air from the sea to the land. The warm, most air from the ocean moves inland on the Westerlies and brings mild temperatures and rain to most of Western Europe throughout the year. Summers are cool. Winters are mild. This climate is known as the marine west coast climate zone.

Climate Other areas of Western Europe, such as southern France, have a drier climate. A high-pressure system called the Azores High travels north over the Atlantic Ocean during the summer months. This pressure system pushes moist air northward. As a result, summers in southern France are hot and dry. Winters are mild or cool. Most of the rainfall occurs in spring and autumn. This is called the Mediterranean climate.

Natural Resources Layers of coal lie beneath rich, fertile soils. Beneath the North Sea are large pockets of oil and natural gas. Western Europeans use these natural resources to support their economies and populations.

Rich soils The Northern European Plain has some of the richest soils in Europe. France is Western Europe’s leading agricultural producers. Wheat fields Orchards Vineyards Raise cattle and hogs

Groups: History Roman Empire & Christianity Middle Ages Hundred Years’ War Early Modern Enlightenment Reform

History of the Region through 1800 Beginnings- Whole Class Roman Empire & Christianity The Middle Ages Hundred Years’ War Early Modern Europe The Enlightenment Reform

Change and Conflict p. 346

Life in Western Europe

Lunches in France Compare and contrast school lunches in the United States with lunches in France. Discuss what factors might affect the different types and length of school lunches in France versu.s the United States