Geography Ptolemy’s First World Map, c. AD 150

What is Geography? Geography is a representation of the whole known world together with the phenomena which are contained therein. Ptolemy, Geographia 2nd Century A.D. Geography is the science of place. Its vision is grand, its view panoramic. It sweeps the surface of the Earth, charting the physical, organic and cultural terrain, their areal differentiation, and their ecological dynamics with humankind. Its foremost tool is the map. Leonard Krishtalka, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, 20th Century A.D.

What is Geography? Geography is the study of what is where and why it’s there. Mike Reed

Okay, but what exactly is it? Well, it’s a way of thinking about intellectual problems, both natural and societal, which emphasizes the importance of spatial relationships.. Take any social, environmental, or physical question or problem and ask yourself whether there is a spatial aspect to it. Chances are that space and place play a role in the explanation and distribution of that question. Mike Reed, Making It Up As I Go For example: Why are so many plant and animal species becoming extinct at the end of the twentieth century? Why do there always seem to be been so many wars in Africa? Why is corn such an important part of a traditional Mexican diet? Why are some beers known as India Pale Ales?

Divisions of Geography Physical Geography Human Geography Rocks and Minerals Population Landforms Settlements Soils Economic Activities Animals Transportation Plants Recreational Activities Water Religion Atmosphere Political Systems Rivers and Other Water Bodies Social Traditions Environment Human Migration Climate and Weather Agricultural Systems Geography is a bridge between the natural and social sciences. Geography is a holistic or synthesizing science.

The Geography of Breakfast a geographic thinking demonstration Take a minute to write down everything ate for breakfast or lunch today.

Top Ten Coffee Growing Countries COFFEE

Chocolate was “discovered” for Europe by Christopher Columbus, but it’s commercial possibilities were recognized by Hernan Cortez who was served a drink made from cocoa beans by Moctezuma, leader of the Aztecs (whom he later executed). The cacao tree, like coffee, grows only in the tropics. Today it is grown primarily for export to the U.S. and Europe. CHOCOLATE

Breakfast Foods Food Place of OriginCurrent Production coffeeEthiopiaTropics orangesSouth Asia, IndiaUS, Mediterranean porkChina, South AsiaWorldwide wheatNear EastUS, Russia, Argentina teaChinaAsia oats Near EastTemperate Climates pepperSouth AmericaAmericas, Asia

Fieldwork: Geographers as Modern Explorers and Observers

Taos, New Mexico

Northern Baja Rest Stop