Prisoners of Geography summary

If you’re familiar with the history of Tibet, you know it’s been the site of an ongoing struggle for freedom from Chinese rule. It’s also one that has involved regular, though always shocking, acts of Tibetan monks setting themselves on fire to protest Chinese oppression. In 2008, 21 Tibetans died after protests turned especially violent. 

There’s been no shortage of humanitarian pleas calling for an end to the occupation of Tibet. So why does China refuse to let go of Tibet?

If you were to think of the world in terms of real estate, which country do you think a realtor would hold in the highest regard? If you factor in things like good neighbors, water supplies and state-of-the-art security features, most real estate agents would put the United States of America on the top of their list.

Unlike most of the countries mentioned in these blinks, the United States has few concerns about traditional invasions.

Thanks to the Enlightenment and the Industrial Revolution, Europe has hugely contributed to the modern world, for better or for worse. This isn’t just happenstance; it’s due in large part to Europe’s temperate climate, generous rainfall and fertile soil, all of which helped build thriving societies. 

Due to geography, however, some areas of Europe have thrived more than others.

The relationship Africa has with its oceans and waterways is a complex and frustrating one, and this isn’t just as a result of its vast deserts. Africa is home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches and coastlines, as well as legendary rivers. But as we’ll see, African countries have been dealt a difficult hand when it comes to being able to use these waterways for commercial gain.

For starters, Africa’s picture-perfect coastline is all but useless when it comes to setting up harbors.

With the seemingly endless threats it poses to neighboring countries, North Korea is becoming a major headache – especially for South Korea. You may be wondering how this difficult arrangement has lasted so long and, once again, the answer lies in geography.

Even though South Korea has twice the population and 80 times the economic power of North Korea, not to mention having a superpower like the United States on its side, South Korea has remained the vulnerable one.