Unit 4 Review - Political Geography

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the lecture notes on Political Geography, providing definitions essential for understanding the topics discussed.

Autonomous regions

Regions that have a degree of independence and self-governance within a larger political entity, often recognized by a central government.

Nation-state

A political entity characterized by a defined territory, a permanent population, and a government, which is recognized by other states.

Neocolonialism

A form of indirect control over developing countries where foreign powers exploit resources without direct political control.

Devolution

The transfer of power from a central government to regional or local governments.

Choke points

Strategic narrow passages, essential for controlling the movement of goods or people, often significant in geopolitical conflicts.

Boundary types

Categories of borders including relic, geometric, antecedent, subsequent, superimposed, and consequent.

Boundary process

The steps involved in creating and maintaining boundaries: definition, delimitation, demarcation, and administration.

Sovereignty

The authority of a state to govern itself, free from outside interference.

Ethnonationalism

A belief that a particular ethnic group has the right to self-determination and can form a nation-state.

Supranational organizations

Entities formed by multiple countries to achieve common goals, which may transcend national boundaries, such as the UN or EU.

Gerrymandering

The manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor one political party over others.

Centrifugal force

Factors that can cause a state to become fragmented or disunified, often resulting in instability.

Centripetal force

Factors that promote unity and stability within a state, leading to greater cohesion.