How Geography Shapes Cultural Life
The relationship between geography and culture is profound and intricate, influencing everything from the way people live to their beliefs and traditions. Geography plays a crucial role in determining the lifestyle and cultural diversity of a place, as illustrated by the experiences and observations of an individual journeying through various regions of the world.
Geography Determines World Differences
Geography is the great shaper of cultural life, with different regions developing unique cultures based on their geographic surroundings. The Equator serves as a significant dividing line. On one side, regions with hot, dry deserts have evolved differently compared to the wet, forested, and river-filled landscapes to the north and south. Europe, Scandinavia, and southern latitudes offer contrasting examples of how geography influences cultural development.
In Europe and Scandinavia, temperate zones with abundant water and fertile lands enabled the development of advanced civilizations. These civilizations thrived on agriculture, skilled trades, and the formation of political and economic classes. The geography facilitated the construction of castles, churches, and other monumental structures that have endured for centuries. Key rivers and oceans provided the means for exploration and trade, leading to advancements and the spread of cultural practices.
Scandinavian Culture: A Maritime Heritage
Scandinavia, with its deep-water fjords and plentiful coastlines, has a rich maritime heritage dating back to the Viking era. The Vikings, skilled sailors and shipbuilders, roamed the seas, raiding and eventually settling in various parts of Europe, including Germany, England, and France. The historical lineage traced back to the 10th century highlights the enduring influence of geography on cultural identity. The coastal nature of Scandinavia and the German coast facilitated trade, exploration, and the development of a distinct set of cultural practices.
The journey of a family lineage from small villages in Prussia to the shores of Milwaukee exemplifies how geography shapes cultural and economic opportunities. Just as the Vikings built dragon-ships, the family built luxury homes in the Midwest, leveraging their carpentry skills. Their story underscores the crucial role of geography in shaping cultural and economic prosperity.
Geography and Cultural Diversity
The influence of geography extends beyond Scandinavia, impacting culture in other regions. Europe, the Middle East, and Africa offer stark contrasts in cultural development. In Europe, ancient structures like the Pyramids, castles, and churches stand as testaments to the interplay between geography and culture. The availability of water and fertile lands allowed for the emergence of advanced civilizations.
In contrast, regions with harsher conditions, such as deserts and jungles, experienced less cultural development and migration. People often moved to more temperate zones with water availability and fertile lands, which supported agriculture and the rise of more advanced cultures. This movement led to the spread of different cultures and religions around the world.
Lessons from Personal Experiences
Personal experiences in different regions reveal the profound impact of geography on cultural diversity. Visiting the 3rd world in Africa and the Middle East presented stark contrasts to the culturally rich and progressive societies in the West. The human feces carrying parasites in Djibouti, for instance, highlight the stark differences in environmental and cultural norms. The Middle East once held prosperity but has largely regressed under the influence of the Islamic revolution, leading to a simpler and less advanced way of life.
The life in the French Foreign Legion in Djibouti further illustrates the impact of geography on cultural norms and survival. The harsh conditions and intense training programs shaped the mindset of legionnaires, making them expendable assets for the French military. The experience of these misfits and sadists highlights the role of geography in shaping cultural values and the mentality of individuals.
A journey on an Amtrak train from Manhattan to Miami also illustrated the stark differences in cultural attitudes towards race and segregation. Despite progress in some states, the South remains stuck in a 1960s mindset, reflecting the enduring impact of geography on cultural practices and societal norms.
These stories and observations underscore the critical impact of geography on cultural life, from the development of advanced civilizations in temperate zones to the harsh realities of harsher environments. The interplay between geography and culture is a dynamic and influential force, shaping the way people live, work, and think.