Problems

Answer the following questions using the web pages listed.

1. How many permanent member countries does the United Nations have?
2. Is Japan an original member of the UN?
3. Is Iraq an original member of the UN?
4. Is Tonga a current member of the UN?
5. Is Switzerland a current member of the UN?
6. Do member nations pay annual dues?
7. Does the UN engage in peacekeeping activities?
8. Does the UN concern itself with environmental issues?

Problems:

1. Geographers have traditionally distinguished between natural (physical) and artificial boundaries. On the following outline map of the United States, distinguish between these two types of boundaries by drawing in with a heavy or colored pen those state boundaries (or portions thereof) which are based on physical features. Include any portions of international boundaries as well. Answer the following questions based on what you draw on the map.

1. In which part of the U.S. is the majority of state boundaries based upon natural features?

__________________________________________________________

2. In which part of the country is the majority of state boundaries based on artificial lines?

_______________________________________________________________________

3. Explain the difference.

_________________________________________________________________________________

2. Many of the concepts discussed in this chapter can be demonstrated using examples found on the European continent. The following outline map contains the letters A through L. Each location represents an aspect of political geography. In the space provided, indicate which letter is represented by that phenomenon.

• Compact state _____
• Elongated state _____
• Enclave _____
• Ethnographic boundary _____
• Exclave _____
• Fragmented state _____
• Mini-state _____
• Nation-state _____
• National core _____
• Nationalist party _____
• Perforated state _____
• Relocated capital _____

Critical Thinking Questions:

1. Maps and map projections have long been used to influence public opinion. Why do you think the former Soviet Union portrayed itself in a polar projection? Prior to the entry of the United States into World War II, American isolationists used Eurasia-centered maps to dismiss the threat from Germany and Japan. Explain the reasoning behind it and comment on its fallacy.
2. Figure 9.3 in the textbook shows claims made by various nations to Antarctica. Review the Movements of the Continents discussion in Chapter 3 and consult an atlas for the location of know mineral deposits in the Southern Hemisphere. Discuss why these claims may not be as ludicrous as they may seem at first glance.
3. The growth and diffusion of various religions during the 20^th century has affected national unity and created situations for hostilities between groups, including actions by separatists. Name two examples each from Europe, Asia and Africa to support this observation. Discuss the problem and comment on the solution, if any.
4. Study the location the capital of your state or province and that of two other states or provinces. If possible, one of the other capitals should be an ;quot;original;quot; and the other more recently established. Discuss, compare and contrast these capital cities as core areas or as being spatially convenient to its jurisdiction's population.
5. Thee European Union is modeled roughly after the United States of America, a federation of sovereign states joined together for the common good such as economic stability, defense and shared resources. Predict the future of the EU. As it matures, will there be a seamless national entity equivalent to the USA? Explain your reasoning.