Choose three examples of places on your list from question 4. that have been strongly influenced by the environment.

Question

Explain how these places are influenced by the environment.

7. Other than the environment, identify other characteristics that influence a place.

Answer 1

Example 1: The Amazon rainforest in South America has been strongly influenced by its environment. The heavy rainfall and nutrient-rich soil support a vast array of plant and animal species, making it one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. The dense vegetation also provides a natural barrier for indigenous communities living in the area, shaping their traditional lifestyles and worldview.

Example 2: The Maldives, a group of islands in the Indian Ocean, have been strongly influenced by the environment due to their low-lying topography. With an average elevation of just 1.5 meters above sea level, the islands are highly vulnerable to rising sea levels and climate change. This has forced the Maldivian government to prioritize sustainable development and marine conservation efforts to protect the islands from sea level rise and other environmental threats.

Example 3: The Sahara Desert in North Africa has shaped the history and culture of the region in many ways. The harsh and arid conditions make it difficult for human habitation, leading to nomadic lifestyles and cultural traditions based around the pursuit of food and water. The varying terrain and oases in the desert have also served as important trade routes and cultural exchange points for centuries, shaping the history and identity of the region.

Other characteristics that influence a place can include its geography, history, culture, economy, political structures, and infrastructure. For example, a coastal city may have a strong economy based on fishing and tourism, while a mountainous region may have a cultural tradition of sheep farming. The history and politics of a place can also shape its character, such as the legacy of colonialism in many African countries or the Cold War division of Germany. Finally, infrastructure such as transportation networks and urban design can shape the way people interact with and perceive a place.