AP Human Geography: Shapes of States

Definition of State

• "State" is a synonym for "country."

Compact States

• Characterized as small, ideally circular in shape.
• Minimal boundaries make it easy to defend.
• The capital is centrally located for efficient access.

Characteristics of Compact States

• Facilitate good communication.
• Allow easy land protection during attacks.
• Are more influenced by surrounding countries.
• Often more developed due to accessible capitals.

Examples of Compact States

• Lesotho
• Rwanda

Elongated States

• Defined as long and narrow in shape.

Characteristics of Elongated States

• Poor communication due to the distance from the capital.
• Isolation can occur.
• Difficulty in defense during attacks.
• Typically less developed because areas are far from the capital.

Examples of Elongated States

• Chile
• Italy

Perforated States

• States that completely surround another state.

Characteristics of Perforated States

• May experience ethnic, religious, or language conflicts.

Examples of Perforated States

• South Africa (surrounds Lesotho)
• Italy (surrounds San Marino)
• Bangladesh (surrounds India)

Fragmented States

• States that exist in multiple pieces.

Characteristics of Fragmented States

• Benefit from good trade opportunities due to water access.
• Increased independence in governance and law due to separation.
• Experience a lack of resources.
• Harder to defend in wartime scenarios.

Examples of Fragmented States

• Indonesia
• Philippines

Prorupted States

• Defined by a large extension, often referred to as an "arm."

Characteristics of Prorupted States

• Experience political tension due to less connectivity with the main area.
• Difficult to defend during attacks.
• Facilitate more trade and fishing opportunities.
• Easier for transportation of goods.

Examples of Prorupted States

• Italy
• Mexico
• United States (Florida)

Landlocked States

• States that do not have outlets to ocean water.

Characteristics of Landlocked States

• Reduced trade capabilities due to transportation challenges.
• Governmental conflicts may arise from differing political ideologies between neighboring countries.

Examples of Landlocked States

• Swaziland
• Lesotho