Overview of North America's Physical Regions and Climate Change
Estela Espallargas
What is the geographical area referred to as the East and Gulf Coast?
From New England to the Delta of the Mississippi River; from the Atlantic Ocean to the Appalachian Mountains.
What major geographical feature separates the streams that flow east and west in the Interior region?
The Rocky Mountains (continental divide).
Which two areas are included in the Plains and Highlands of the Interior?
Central Lowlands and the Great Plains.
What river systems drain the Western Mountains and the Great Basin?
Columbia and Colorado River systems.
Name three major river systems in the United States.
Mississippi River, Ohio River, Missouri River.
What is the approximate length of the Rio Grande?
3034 km.
What is causing climate change since the mid-20th century?
Rising levels of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases due to human activities.
What are some expected consequences of climate change in the United States?
Rising temperatures, shifting snow and rainfall patterns, more extreme climate events, rising sea levels, and prolonged droughts in the western United States.
When did European colonization of North America begin?
In the mid-16th century.
Which city was founded by Spain in Florida in 1565?
St. Augustine.
What was significant about Jamestown, Virginia, established in 1607?
It was the first British settlement in North America.
What demographic impact did European colonization have on Native Americans?
The native population was reduced from an estimated 10-18 million to between 2-3 million due to diseases and violence.
What motivated immigrants during the 3rd wave of immigration (1890-1930)?
Job opportunities and freedom of religion.
Which groups were primarily involved in the 1st wave of immigration (1680-1776)?
Scots, Irish, Germans, and African slaves.
What significant factors contributed to the 2nd wave of immigration (1820-1890)?
Economic opportunities, escaping persecution, and the industrial revolution.
What demographic changes occurred during the 4th wave of immigration (1965-present)?
Asians and Hispanics became the largest groups, with a focus on Latino immigration.
What was a major consequence of colonialism for Indigenous people pre-1776?
Breakdown of social structures and rapid demographic decline due to diseases.
What concept emerged during the era following Independence (1776-1871) regarding Native nations?
The concept of reservations where native nations were given small land bases in exchange for government protection.
What was a significant policy change regarding Indigenous people from 1871 to 1890?
Congress halted treaty making, leading to laws made without negotiation or consent.
What metaphor describes the assimilation process in American culture?
The "melting pot."
What does the term "nativism" refer to in the context of immigration?
Anti-immigration movements that emerged as early as the 1840s.
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Description
Explore the diverse physical regions of North America, from the East Coast to the Rockies, and understand the impact of climate change, including rising temperatures and extreme weather events, on the environment and communities.
Questions
Download Questions1. What was a major factor contributing to the 2nd wave of immigration (1820-1890)?
2. What was a key reason for the hostility faced by European immigrants such as Germans and Irish when they first arrived in the USA?
3. How did the assimilation model change in the USA when it was called into question?
4. What event marked a significant violent conflict for African Americans in their struggle for civil rights in 1965?
5. What was the primary objective of the DACA program introduced by the Obama administration?
6. What is a common myth about the early settlers in America according to the content?
7. What are the two main areas within the Plains and Highlands of the Interior?
8. Which river systems drain the Western Mountains and the Great Basin?
9. What was a significant consequence of European colonization on Native American populations by the late 15th century?
10. Which group was the largest non-English-speaking group during the 1st wave of immigration (1680-1776)?
Study Notes
Overview of U.S. Geography, Immigration, and Indigenous Peoples
This document synthesizes key themes related to the physical geography of the United States, major river systems, climate variations, historical immigration patterns, and the impact of colonization on Indigenous peoples. Understanding these interconnected topics is crucial for grasping the complexities of American history and identity.
Physical Geography and Major River Systems
- Regions: The U.S. is divided into three primary physical regions: the East and Gulf Coast, Plains and Highlands, and Western Mountains. Each region has unique geographical features influencing climate and ecosystems.
- Rivers: Significant river systems include the Mississippi (with tributaries like Ohio and Missouri), Arkansas, Colorado, Columbia, and Rio Grande. These rivers are vital for transportation, agriculture, and supporting diverse habitats.
Climate Variations
- Regional Climate: The geographical differences across regions imply diverse climates affecting local weather patterns. Human-induced climate change exacerbates this variation with rising temperatures and extreme weather events.
Historical Context of Immigration
- Colonial Beginnings: European colonization began in the mid-16th century with significant impacts on Indigenous populations due to disease and conflict.
- Waves of Immigration (1890-1930): This period saw a surge in immigrants from southern/eastern Europe seeking jobs or fleeing persecution. By 1910, foreign-born residents made up 15% of the population.
Nativism & Cultural Nationalism
- Nativism: Anti-immigration sentiments grew from the 1840s onward as laws were enacted to restrict certain groups based on racial biases.
- Cultural Identity: Nationalism emphasizes cultural uniformity while often marginalizing minority identities. Immigrants face pressure to assimilate into dominant cultural norms.
Impact on Indigenous Peoples
- Disruption Pre-Independence: Before 1776, European settlers caused a drastic decline in Indigenous populations through violence and disease.
- Treaty Violations: Post-independence treaties promised land protection but were frequently broken by the U.S., undermining Indigenous sovereignty.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S.'s physical geography significantly influences its climate patterns and ecosystems.
- Historical immigration waves have shaped demographic diversity while also fostering nativist sentiments against certain groups.
- The legacy of colonization continues to affect both Indigenous communities' rights today as well as broader societal narratives around identity in America.
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