While reading "Prisoners of Geography," by Tim Marshall, I learned a lot about how the physical features of our planet, such as climates, seas, mountains, rivers, deserts, and borders, shape global politics in ways we rarely consider. I particularly chose this book for its relevance to our current global situation, and I was admittedly taken aback by how much I had yet to learn about this topic.
The book provides compelling answers to questions such as: Why has Russia historically been so concerned with buffer states? How has China's geography influenced its approach to maritime disputes? What role does the Mississippi River play in the United States' economic dominance? Why has Africa struggled with nation-building despite its resource wealth? How has the lack of navigable rivers affected the Middle East's development?
Here are some interesting things I have read so far:
United States:
I feel like I am late to learning this, but I found it interesting that the reason that the US, bordered by two oceans & with a mass of land well suited for various agricultural and mining endeavors, grew quickly to become the world's biggest economic power, then maritime power, then military force not to be reckoned with. I thought that was interesting because it highlights how geographical advantages can translate into global influence and power, shaping a nation's trajectory on the world stage.
Africa:
Additionally, I also found it interesting that many of the ethnic conflicts between Sudan, Somalia, Angola, Kenya, Congo, bear the weight of Europeans' lack of understanding of African geography and ignorance over its cultural diversity since they drew artificial borders without considering the complex tapestry of ethnic groups, languages, and historical territories. This oversight has led to ongoing tensions and conflicts, demonstrating the long-lasting impact of geographical decisions made by outsiders.
Europe:
The book provides compelling answers to questions such as: Why has Russia historically been so concerned with buffer states? How has China's geography influenced its approach to maritime disputes? What role does the Mississippi River play in the United States' economic dominance? Why has Africa struggled with nation-building despite its resource wealth? How has the lack of navigable rivers affected the Middle East's development?
Here are some interesting things I have read so far:
United States:
I feel like I am late to learning this, but I found it interesting that the reason that the US, bordered by two oceans & with a mass of land well suited for various agricultural and mining endeavors, grew quickly to become the world's biggest economic power, then maritime power, then military force not to be reckoned with. I thought that was interesting because it highlights how geographical advantages can translate into global influence and power, shaping a nation's trajectory on the world stage.
Africa:
Additionally, I also found it interesting that many of the ethnic conflicts between Sudan, Somalia, Angola, Kenya, Congo, bear the weight of Europeans' lack of understanding of African geography and ignorance over its cultural diversity since they drew artificial borders without considering the complex tapestry of ethnic groups, languages, and historical territories. This oversight has led to ongoing tensions and conflicts, demonstrating the long-lasting impact of geographical decisions made by outsiders.
Europe:
Also another interesting lesson was that Europe is possibly the continent where most nations were created following geographical patterns. The continent's diverse landscape, from mountain ranges to river systems, has played a crucial role in shaping individual countries' development and their relationships with neighbors. This geographical diversity has influenced everything from economic growth to cultural identities across Europe.
Russia-Ukraine:
Russia-Ukraine:
Additionally, reading about Russia and Ukraine was interesting as it provided a deeper understanding of the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region. The book shed light on Russia's historical concerns about its western borders, its strategic interest in Crimea, and its military posture - all of which are deeply rooted in geographical considerations. This perspective offered insights that went beyond the typical media coverage, illustrating how geography continues to shape modern conflicts and international relations.
Final Thoughts:
While, “Prisoners of Geography” is a good read for understand the geography of geopolitics, I understand it is also important to note that geography is only one factor of international relations (IR), and there also other factors of power in IR that should not be overlooked: tech advances, chemical research, strategic planning, etc can shape the power balance as well.
Overall, I felt this book was a good way to expand on the theory that geography determines destiny and how it can fit with the theory of inclusive vs extractive institution, I am interested in reading more about the deeper history and factors of IR once I finish. I give this book a 9/10 for lessons learned and for style of writing that made seemingly complex topics easier for one to understand.
Final Thoughts:
While, “Prisoners of Geography” is a good read for understand the geography of geopolitics, I understand it is also important to note that geography is only one factor of international relations (IR), and there also other factors of power in IR that should not be overlooked: tech advances, chemical research, strategic planning, etc can shape the power balance as well.
Overall, I felt this book was a good way to expand on the theory that geography determines destiny and how it can fit with the theory of inclusive vs extractive institution, I am interested in reading more about the deeper history and factors of IR once I finish. I give this book a 9/10 for lessons learned and for style of writing that made seemingly complex topics easier for one to understand.
Tara, this is a highly fascinating read. I enjoy thinking and reading about potential "whys" to scenarios that simply are difficult to explain. I appreciate you clarifying that while this may be a reason as to why these conflicts are perpetuating, it might not be the only reason. That insight shows me that you genuinely thought hard about this book. I may pick it up for my next book!
ReplyDeleteThis is a great read! You are absolutely right that beyond physical geography, we must consider others factors that influence International relations, such as political alliances, economic interests, and technology. The US has historically been involved in many global conflicts due to strategic interests.
ReplyDeleteTara, I really enjoyed reading this. I found that your takeaways were very insightful and really flowed with the way your wrote your post. Great work.
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