Political Boundaries Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is a political boundary?

The demarcation line that separates countries from each other or states or provinces within each country.

Which of the following are types of political boundaries? (Select all that apply)

Subsequent (correct)

Relic (correct)

Geometric (correct)

Superimposed (correct)

Cultural

What is a relic boundary?

A former boundary line that is still discernible and marked by some cultural landscape features.

Give an example of a relic boundary.

Great Wall of China, Berlin Wall. Signup and view all the answers

What defines a superimposed boundary?

A boundary that is imposed on the cultural landscape which ignores pre-existing cultural patterns. Signup and view all the answers

Provide an example of a superimposed boundary.

Berlin Conference division of Africa by Europeans. Signup and view all the answers

What is an antecedent boundary?

A boundary line established before the area in question is well populated. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of an antecedent boundary.

U.S.-Canada border. Signup and view all the answers

What is a geometric boundary?

Political boundaries that are defined and delimited by straight lines. Signup and view all the answers

What is a subsequent boundary?

A boundary line that is established after the area in question has been settled and that considers the cultural characteristics of the bounded area. Signup and view all the answers

Define a consequent boundary.

A boundary line that coincides with some cultural divide, such as religion or language. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Political Boundaries Overview

A political boundary is a demarcation line that separates countries or divisions within a country, such as states or provinces.

Types of Political Boundaries

Six main types include:
- Relic
- Superimposed
- Antecedent
- Geometric
- Subsequent
- Consequent

Relic Boundary

A relic boundary is a former boundary that remains visible, often marked by cultural landscape features.

Examples of Relic Boundaries

The Great Wall of China is a notable relic boundary.
The Berlin Wall also serves as a historical example.

Superimposed Boundary

Superimposed boundaries are established on existing cultural landscapes without regard for historical or cultural patterns, typically seen in colonial contexts.

Example of Superimposed Boundary

The division of Africa at the Berlin Conference by European powers is a key example of a superimposed boundary.

Antecedent Boundary

An antecedent boundary is drawn before the region becomes densely populated, often reflecting geographical features.

Example of Antecedent Boundary

The U.S.-Canada border is an example of an antecedent boundary, established before significant settlement.

Geometric Boundary

Geometric boundaries are defined by straight lines and may overlap with other boundary types, such as superimposed or antecedent.

Subsequent Boundary

Subsequent boundaries are created after an area is settled, taking into account the cultural characteristics and existing settlements.

Example of Subsequent Boundary

Many political borders in Europe are classified as subsequent boundaries due to their consideration of cultural contexts.

Consequent Boundary

Consequent boundaries coincide with cultural divides, such as differences in religion or language among populations.

Description

Explore the essential concepts of political boundaries through these flashcards. Learn about the types of boundaries that define regions and the significance of boundary lines on a map. Perfect for anyone studying geography or political science.