Devolutionary Factors in Geography - Mr. Sin Channel

Introduction

• Devolution: Transfer of power from a central government to a regional government.
  • Can result in a state breaking into smaller states or power shifting to regional governments.
• Factors leading to devolution:
  • Physical geography
  • Cultural elements
  • Economic and social divisions
  • Political factors
  • Irredentism

Physical Geography

• Fragmentation by physical barriers (mountains, rivers, oceans) can isolate people, leading to:
  • Development of distinct cultures and identities.
  • Desire for more local power.
• Example: The Basques in Spain are isolated by mountains, leading to a unique language and cultural identity, seeking autonomy.

Cultural Elements

• Ethnic Separatism: When ethnic groups with histories of self-determination want more autonomy.
  • Multinational states risk ethnic groups wanting to separate.
  • Examples:
    • Basques in Spain
    • Catalans in Spain
    • Kurds in the Middle East

Language as a Cultural Factor

• Language differences can create unique cultural identities and devolutionary pressures.
  • Example: Quebec in Canada (French-speaking) vs. English-speaking Canada.
  • Example: Belgium's Flemish (speak Dutch) and Walloons (speak French).

Political Factors

• Ethnic Cleansing: Government abuses leading to devolution.
  • Examples:
    • Rwandan Genocide (1994): Hutu's against Tutsis.
    • Myanmar's persecution of Rohingya.
• Terrorism: High violence rates lead to demands for change and devolutionary pressures.

Economic and Social Divisions

• Economic disparities can lead to frustration and devolutionary pressures.
  • Example: Catalonia in Spain, with high GDP compared to other provinces, seeks more autonomy.
  • Example: Nigeria's resource distribution leading to ethnic and religious conflicts.

Irredentism

• Irredentism: Movement to unite a nation spread across different states.
  • Example: Russia's actions in Ukraine, citing protection of ethnic Russians and unification.

Conclusion

• Devolution can be driven by a combination of the above factors.
• Practice questions provided for review.
• Encouragement to subscribe for more content and to utilize the ultimate review packet for AP Human Geography.

These notes summarize the key points of devolutionary factors discussed in the Mr. Sin channel lecture, providing a comprehensive overview for study and review.