1. QOTD Tie-in
What are the functions and impacts (intentional and unintentional) of a physical boundary between the U.S. and Mexico?
Boundaries have meaning and functions politically, economically, and culturally. Using the language of geography describe the meaning and function of the U.S. - Mexico border – politically, economically, and culturally

2. Political meaning and function
Recognized international border by both govts. (product of war)
Immigration debate in U.S. govt. (“build a wall”, amnesty, rational)
Lax govt. regulation in Mexico in allowing Americans in
Strict govt. regulation in U.S. in allowing Mexicans in
Protection of sovereign territory

3. Economic meaning and function
Perceived as a barrier to a better life by many Mexicans
Illegal drug trafficking, supply (Mexico) and demand (U.S.)
Attraction and migration to maquiladoras
Borderland – area with characteristics of both countries; functions like a single economic region in many ways
Lesser developed country vs. more developed country

4. Cultural meaning and function
Cohesiveness of borderland region – family members on both sides, daily travel across the border, similarity in cultural landscape – foods, churches, consumer items, music, art, etc.
Us and them mentality does not make sense to many residents in US- Mexico borderland region.
Distance decay – El Paso, TX (76% Hispanic) vs. Topeka, Kansas (8.7% Hispanic)
Spanish and Spanglish usage