Introduction
In Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography, the concept of subsequent boundary holds significant importance. It refers to a boundary that has been established after an initial boundary has been created. Subsequent boundaries often arise due to changes in political, economic, or social circumstances. Understanding subsequent boundaries is crucial for comprehending the complexities of human interactions with the environment.
Definition of Subsequent Boundary
A subsequent boundary is a new boundary that is established after an initial boundary has been created. It is typically drawn to reflect changes in the distribution of power or resources, or to address emerging political or cultural differences. Subsequent boundaries can be either formal or informal.
Formal subsequent boundaries are legally recognized and enforced by a government or international organization. They are typically created through treaties, agreements, or declarations.
Informal subsequent boundaries are not legally recognized, but they are nevertheless observed and respected by the people who live in the affected areas. They may arise from cultural, linguistic, or religious differences.
Types of Subsequent Boundaries
Subsequent boundaries can be classified into three main types:
- Succession boundaries: These boundaries are created when a new political entity emerges from the territory of an existing political entity. For example, the boundary between the United States and Mexico was created when Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821.
- Accretion boundaries: These boundaries are created when a political entity acquires new territory through conquest, purchase, or treaty. For example, the boundary between the United States and Canada was created through a series of treaties and acquisitions in the 19th century.
- Cession boundaries: These boundaries are created when a political entity transfers territory to another political entity. For example, the boundary between India and Pakistan was created when India gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1947.
Causes of Subsequent Boundaries
Subsequent boundaries can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Political changes: Changes in government or political ideology can lead to the creation of new boundaries. For example, the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 led to the creation of several new independent states.
- Economic changes: Changes in economic conditions can also lead to the creation of new boundaries. For example, the discovery of oil in the North Sea in the 1960s led to disputes over maritime boundaries between several European countries.
- Social changes: Changes in social conditions, such as population growth or migration, can also lead to the creation of new boundaries. For example, the influx of refugees from Syria into Europe in recent years has led to increased tensions over borders.
Consequences of Subsequent Boundaries
Subsequent boundaries can have a significant impact on the people who live in the affected areas. They can:
- Divide communities: Subsequent boundaries can divide communities that were previously united. For example, the boundary between North Korea and South Korea has divided families and friends for decades.
- Create conflict: Subsequent boundaries can create conflict between different groups of people. For example, the boundary between Israel and Palestine has been a major source of conflict for many years.
- Restrict movement: Subsequent boundaries can restrict movement of people and goods. For example, the boundary between the United States and Mexico has made it difficult for people to cross the border illegally.
- Affect economic development: Subsequent boundaries can affect economic development in the affected areas. For example, the boundary between India and Pakistan has hindered economic cooperation between the two countries.
Managing Subsequent Boundaries
Managing subsequent boundaries is a complex and challenging task. There is no easy solution, as each boundary is unique and must be addressed on a case-by-case basis. However, there are some general principles that can be applied:
- Respect for existing boundaries: Respecting existing boundaries is essential for maintaining peace and stability. However, there may be cases where it is necessary to adjust boundaries to reflect changes in circumstances.
- Negotiation and compromise: Negotiation and compromise are essential for resolving disputes over subsequent boundaries. All parties involved must be willing to negotiate and compromise in order to reach a mutually acceptable solution.
- International cooperation: International cooperation is essential for managing subsequent boundaries. International organizations, such as the United Nations, can play a role in mediating disputes and facilitating cooperation between different countries.
Conclusion
Subsequent boundaries are a complex and challenging issue in AP Human Geography. They can have a significant impact on the people who live in the affected areas. Managing subsequent boundaries requires a combination of respect for existing boundaries, negotiation and compromise, and international cooperation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a formal and informal subsequent boundary?
A formal subsequent boundary is legally recognized and enforced by a government or international organization. An informal subsequent boundary is not legally recognized, but it is nevertheless observed and respected by the people who live in the affected areas.
What are the three main types of subsequent boundaries?
The three main types of subsequent boundaries are succession boundaries, accretion boundaries, and cession boundaries.
What are the causes of subsequent boundaries?
Subsequent boundaries can be caused by a variety of factors, including political changes, economic changes, and social changes.
What are the consequences of subsequent boundaries?
Subsequent boundaries can divide communities, create conflict, restrict movement, and affect economic development.
How can subsequent boundaries be managed?
Subsequent boundaries can be managed through a combination of respect for existing boundaries, negotiation and compromise, and international cooperation.
Additional Resources
- The United Nations and Boundary Disputes
- The International Court of Justice and Boundary Disputes
- The World Bank and Boundary Disputes