European Mediterranean Countries: Spain, Portugal, Italy & Greece Overview

What distinguishes Spain and Portugal from other European nations?

Their history, culture, and location.

What is the only navigable river in Spain?

The Guadalquivir River.

What type of climate predominates in most of Spain?

Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers.

What is the Meseta?

A high plateau that forms most of central Spain.

What agricultural method is practiced by wheat and barley farmers in Spain?

Dry farming, which leaves land unplanted every few years to gather moisture.

What is Madrid known for?

It is the capital and largest city of Spain, serving as a hub of transportation and industry.

Which region in Spain has a tradition of strong cultural divergence?

The Basque region.

What language do the Catalonia people speak?

Catalan, a mixture of French and Spanish.

What are the major economies of Portugal?

Farming and agriculture, particularly grains like wheat, corn, and barley.

What significant treaty was signed in 1494 between Spain and Portugal?

A treaty allowing Portugal to control large parts of Africa and Brazil while Spain controlled the rest of Latin America.

When did Portugal grant independence to its African colonies?

In 1975.

What is the leading port of Portugal?

Lisbon.

What are some major exports of Portugal?

Olive oil, wine, cork, and cork products.

What challenges does Portugal face in its industrial sector?

Industrial pollution and other economic, environmental, and social problems.

What is the significance of the Basque people in Spain?

They have a separate language and a tradition of seeking greater autonomy or independence.

What is the impact of elevation on Spain's climate?

Elevation affects climate, with northern areas receiving more moisture from Atlantic winds.

What is the agricultural practice used in southeastern Spain?

Irrigation for growing citrus fruits and olive trees.

What is the population comparison between Portugal and Indiana?

Portugal is the size of Indiana but has more than 1.5 times as many residents.

What are some economic activities in the northern coast of Spain?

Iron and steel production, textile and plastic manufacturing.

How has Portugal's economy changed since joining the European Union in 1986?

It has diversified beyond agriculture to include industry and high-tech sectors.

What is the primary agricultural product grown in the Meseta region of Spain?

Wheat and barley.

What are the main challenges faced by Portugal's economy today?

Diversification of economic activities and industrial pollution.

What role does irrigation play in southeastern Spain's agriculture?

It provides necessary water for growing citrus fruits and olive trees.

What geological phenomena are associated with seismic activity?

Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

What mountain range begins in northwest Italy and arcs down to the Italian Peninsula?

The Apennine Mountains.

What type of climate is found south of the Alps in Italy?

Mediterranean climate (hot & dry in summer; mild & wet in winter).

What has caused soil erosion in Italy?

Overgrazing of goats and sheep.

What was the dominant economic activity in Italy until the 1960s?

Agriculture.

What is the approximate population of Italy?

About 58 million.

What challenges does Italy face in housing due to its geography?

Building houses in mountainous areas leads to densely populated cities.

What industries have developed in Northern Italy?

Automobiles, home appliances, and metal goods.

What major economic change occurred in Italy after the 1950s?

Transition from a poor agricultural economy to a booming industrial economy.

What significant historical event occurred in 1861 in Italy?

The northern states joined together to form Italy.

What is the term used for geological areas of land that have dropped down between faults?

Graben.

What are the main agricultural products of Northern Italy?

Wheat and rice.

What is the capital city of Greece?

Athens.

What is a major challenge for Greek agriculture?

Poor soil, sparse rainfall, and outdated farming techniques.

What historical mystery surrounds the island of Crete?

The decline of the Minoan civilization around 1500 BC.

What significant cultural contributions did ancient Greece make?

The development of democracy and epic poems like The Iliad and The Odyssey.

What is the significance of the Acropolis in Athens?

It is a historical site with monuments that have stood for thousands of years.

What is the largest port city in Greece?

Piraeus.

What are the main economic activities on the island of Crete?

Fishing and tourism.

What natural disaster is characterized by giant sea waves?

Tsunami.

What was the impact of the Turkish conquest of Constantinople in 1453?

It marked the end of Byzantine control and the rise of Ottoman influence.

What are the two major geographical features that separate Greece from the Peloponnese?

The Gulf of Corinth and the Pindus Mountains.

What is the term for areas that can support permanent residents?

Inhabitable.

What is the primary economic reliance of Athens?

Trade over water.

What was the role of the European Union in Greek agriculture?

It provides financial assistance to Greek farmers.

What is the significance of the Renaissance in Italy?

It was a time of 'rebirth' focused on art and learning.