Types of Boundaries in Geography

Introduction

• The lecture covers different types of boundaries necessary for understanding AP Human Geography.
• Boundaries are invisible barriers or lines that separate one state from another.
• Boundaries can be demarcated with physical items or defined by legal documents such as treaties.

Types of Boundaries

Geometric Boundaries

• Definition: Use straight lines, aligned with latitude and longitude.
• Example: Border between Canada and the United States, follows the 49th parallel.

Antecedent Boundaries

• Definition: Existed before human settlement or cultural landscape creation.
• Example: The boundary between Argentina and Chile based on the Andes Mountain.
• Example: United States and Canada border, created before cultural landscape existed.
• Key Concept: Think of an ancestor, dates back in time.

Relic Boundaries

• Definition: No longer exist but still impact the cultural landscape.
• Example: The Berlin Wall, divided East and West Germany, affects cultural landscape though not an active border.

Superimposed Boundaries

• Definition: Created by a foreign state or group; often ignore local cultural and ethnic groups.
• Example: Boundaries in Africa created by the Berlin Conference without input from local people.

Subsequent Boundaries

• Definition: Develop alongside the cultural landscape.
• Example: Many of Europe's boundaries are subsequent, based on nations, linguistic groups, and cultural landscapes.

Consequent Boundaries

• Definition: A subtype of subsequent boundaries, created due to cultural differences.
• Example: Border between Pakistan and India based on religious differences (Hindus in India, Muslims in Pakistan).
• Example: Boundaries created after the fall of Yugoslavia, based on different nations.

Additional Concepts

Frontiers

• Definition: Geographic areas with no direct state power or control.
• Characteristics: Weak borders not enforced by a state.

Conclusion

• Boundaries can be negotiated, based on physical features, cultural characteristics, or imposed by external powers.
• The lecture suggests practicing with questions and utilizing resources for further help in AP Human Geography.
• Encouragement to subscribe and explore additional review resources.

These notes should provide a comprehensive overview of the key points discussed in the lecture on boundaries in geography.