AP HuG Unit 5-FRQs other terms

Carrying Capacity

Maximum number of individuals or species that an environment can sustainably support without degrading its natural resources.

Malthusian Theory

The theory that population growth would press against available resources in every country, unless "moral restraint" produced lower CBRs or unless disease, famine, war, or other disasters produced high CDRs.

Hearth

The geographic origin or center where a particular cultural trait, innovation, or practice begins and then spreads to other areas.

Food as a cultural trait

Refers to the specific, shared dietary habits, preferences, and taboos that define a group's identity, heritage, and values

What is the Columbian Exchange?

The widespread transfer of plants, animals, foods, human populations, and diseases between the Americas and the rest of the world following Christopher Columbus's voyages in the late 15th century.

How did the Columbian Exchange influence agricultural practices?

It introduced new crops and livestock to various regions, altering food systems globally.

What impact did the Columbian Exchange have on dietary habits?

It influenced dietary habits across continents by introducing new foods.

Migration patterns

The regular (often predictable) long-term or permanent movements of people from one location to another, driven by economic, social, political, or environmental factors

Desertification

The degradation of once-fertile land into arid, desert-like conditions, driven by a mix of climate change (drought) and human activities like overgrazing, deforestation, and poor irrigation.

Sahel Region

A semi-arid zone in Africa bordering the Sahara, is highly susceptible to desertification, leading to significant livelihood losses.

Cultural Convergence

The process by which different cultures become more similar as they interact and share ideas, values, and practices.

How does cultural convergence occur?

Occurs through various channels like globalization, technology, and migration, leading to a blending of cultural elements across societies.