Southeast Asia Section 1 Objective 1: To summarize the political boundaries of South East Asian countries. Objective 2: To explain how the environment impacts those who live in this region. Objective 3:To summarize the physical geography of the region. Objective 4: To explain the rich history of diversity in Southeast Asia.

Physical Features Region is split into two parts: mainland and island area Mainland is a peninsula (def) Island area is made up of archipelagoes (def)

Environmental Concerns Islands in Indonesia and the Philippines are part of the Ring of Fire Earthquakes occur when Eurasian Plate collides with the Indo-Australian Plate. Earthquakes can create tsunamis Recently, a tsunami in 2004 killed more than 230,000 people around the Indian Ocean.

Climate Hot temperatures and lots of rain = lots of rain forests Almost no dry season in the region. Monsoons come every year Summer monsoons cause heavy rain and flooding. Typhoons occur between June and November.

People and Geography Geography played role in history and culture of Southeast Asia. North-south cordilleras (parallel mountain ranges) isolated early peoples and defined national borders. Fertile river valleys aided in development and growth of civilization. Much trade travelled (and continue to travel) through the Malacca Strait aided by the gentle seas of the region. True prize is the Maluku Islands (nickname?)

Strait of Malacca

Settlement and Land Use Mainland deltas and rich soils attracted farming populations. Uneven population density – most live in coastal plains and deltas, or river valleys and cities. Some rainforest areas are not populated at all. Due to mountainous regions – people have altered landscape to meet their needs (terraced farming) Cooler temperatures on mountains are great for growing tea

Urban Problems Increase in urban populations place strain on infrastructure within the cities of the region. Services to the population also suffer due to higher populations. Environmental problems within the urban landscape include air pollution, traffic congestion. Monsoons can bring floods that cause sewage overflow and water contamination.

A History of Diversity Waves of migrations have grown the mainland populations. Currently, many immigrants are Chinese and Indian Historic Chinese influence (ruled Vietnam as early as 100 B.C.!) Major religions include Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism Indonesia has the highest Muslim population in the world! Majority of population in Philippines are Roman Catholic (Why?)