Places and Landscapes REPORTS

Topic 1: Geography
Geography has a genealogy that can be traced back to ancient times and much
before the development of any other sciences. The earliest records of human
knowledge contain geographical observations and information regarding the
physical world. The history of geographical ideas is the accounts of human efforts
to gain more logical and useful information of their habitat and their spread over
the surface of the earth. In earlier times, geography developed due to
explorations, mapping of unknown areas and speculations about the resources
allocated.
Historical Evolution of Geographical Thoughts
Greek Geography - The Greeks pioneered many branches of knowledge. The
period of unprecedented advancements in various fields of knowledge by Greek
scholars is known as “Golden Age of Greece”. Geography as a field of learning in
the western world had its beginnings among the scholars of ancient Greece. This
is not to say that other civilizations outside of Greece did not pursue the study of
earth as human habitat, although many accounts of history of geographical
knowledge written by Europeans give that impression.
Ancient geography - conventionally refers to the geographic theory and practice
developed and elaborated by the Greeks during the millennium from about 500
bce to about 500 ce.
Greek Philosophers
Homer - is regarded as the Father of Geography. This is because he introduced
the literary tradition through his monumental work ‘Odyssey’ and ‘Illiad’. He
described the four winds coming from different directions and named them
Boreas (North), Eurus (East), Notus (South) and Zephyrus (West).

Thales - He visualized earth as a disc floating on water. He was also the first who
started the measurement of the earth and location of things on the face of the
earth; thus establishing the mathematical tradition. Not only this he laid the
foundations of empirical studies that is an explanation can be checked through
ground observations and measures; a critique of the traditional unscientific
explanations.
Anaximander - is credited with the introduction of a Babylonian instrument
known as Gnomon into the Greek literary world. Gnomon is a pole set vertically
above a flat surface on which the varying position of the sun and other celestial
bodies could be measured by the length and direction of the shadow cast by the
vertical pole. He is even credited to produce a world map to scale. This map is
based on the information gathered from the Sumerians who had an archive of
pictorial maps. Interestingly, this map has an ocean encircling the world
Herotodus - was an outstanding Greek scholar of 5th century BC. There is no
exaggeration in the statement to say that Herodotus was the father of history. He
is credited with the idea that history must be treated geographically and all
geography must be treated historically. He is also identified as the father of
ethnography as he provided a vivid portrayal of cultural traits of people who were
unknown to Greeks. His works were based on his own observations during his
travels. He contributed both in physical and human geography.
Plato - is regarded as the master of deductive reasoning from the general to the
particular. He is considered to be the first scholar who adopted the idea of round
earth located in the center of the universe with the other celestial bodies
revolving around it in a circular motion.
Aristotle - Contributed to the branch of human geography when he put forward
the concept of variations in habitability on the surface of the earth on the basis of
latitudinal position. He opined that the regions nearer to the Equator were
uninhabitable and named it as the Torrid Zone. Similarly, the parts of the earth
which was away from the Equator and were permanently frozen were also
uninhabitable – the Frigid Zone.

Eratosthenes - has been regarded as the ‘Father of Geography’. He is the one who
coined the term Geography, deriving from two words ‘ge’ meaning ‘the earth’ and
‘graphy’ meaning ‘to describe’. He is credited to provide the definition of
geography as the ‘’study of earth as the home of man’’. His outstanding
contribution for which he is known throughout the world is his measurement of
the earth’s circumference.
Hipparchus - established the concept of locating the exact position of each place
o the surface of the earth. On the basis of an Assyrian arithmetic, he divided the
circle into 360 degrees. He made an attempt of showing the three-dimensional
earth on a flat surface. He is credited with devising two projections to do so; these
are the stereographic and the orthographic projections.
Modern Geography - Origins of modern geography can be dated back to western
Europe in the 16th century. Expansion of European power. By 1600 the Atlantic
trading system had established links between Europe and the new world.
European universities began to offer specialized courses in geography.
Approches to Geography Today
Regional geography - approach was introduced by German Geographer Karl
Litter. This approach studies the many characteristics of each region of the world.
It studies the specific unique characteristics of places related to their culture,
economy, topography, climate, politics and environmental factors such as their
different species of flora and fauna.
Systematic geography - approach was introduced by German Geographer
Alexander Von Humboldt. in this approach it applies a specific geographical
elements or phenomenon over a defined geographical unit. A study of specific
natural or social phenomenon that gives rise in certain spatial patterns and
structures on the earth surface.
Four Main Branches of Systematic Approach
1. Biogeography, including environmental geography - It focuses on various kinds
of forests, grasslands, distribution of flora and fauna, human-nature relationships,
quality of the living environment and its implications for human welfare.
2. Physical Geography - Study of various elements of earth systems like
atmosphere (air), hydrosphere (water), lithosphere (rock) and biosphere (life) and
their distributions.
3. Geographical methods and techniques - It is concerned with methods and
techniques for field studies, qualitative, quantitative and cartographic analysis.
4. Human Geography: It describes the human culture, population, dynamic socio
economic and political aspects.
TOPIC 2: AGRICULTURE

 Agriculture is the science of farming.

 It is agriculture that has allowed human civilization to expand to the great
heights that it is at today.

Early Agriculture/First Agricultural Revolution

Agriculture began during the Neolithic Era before roughly 9000 BCE when
polished stone tools were developed and the last ice age ended.

Second Agricultural Revolution

 Began around 300 years ago during the 18th century.

 Major changes to farming techniques included selectively breeding
livestock, systematic crop rotation, and the development of chemical
fertilizers.

Third Agricultural Revolution

There were improvements in technologies for growing plants allowed for much
greater crop yields, helping to increase the world population.

Agricultural Activities Across the World

CHINA, JAPAN, KOREA- Intensive farming practices, including terrace farming in

hilly areas.

SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA- Livestock farming, particularly cattle, goats, and poultry.

NOTRH AMERICA- Technologically advanced farming techniques and precision

agriculture.

LATIN AMERICA- Major exporters of soybeans, sugarcane, and coffee

Terrace Farming

Excavating and moving topsoil to form farmed areas and ridges. The trick is that
water flows down to lower platforms when the upper ones are full.

Livestock Farming

Concerned with raising and maintaining livestock, primarily for the purposes of
producing meat, milk, and eggs.

Sustainable Development Goals

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals,
were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end
poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and
prosperity.

17 SDGs are integrated—they recognize that action in one area will affect
outcomes in others, and that development must balance social, economic and
environmental sustainability.

SDG 15

Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems,

sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land
degradation and halt biodiversity loss.

Around 1 million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction – many
within decades – according to the 2019 Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity
and Ecosystem Service.

“I believe that the real problem in this world is not climate change; the real
problem is us because of our ignorance and apathy.”

-Karen Ibasco, Miss Earth 2017

Topic 3: Industrial Revolution

  The process of change from an agrarian and handicraft economy to one
dominated by industry and machine manufacturing.
 These technological changes introduced novel ways of working and living
and fundamentally transformed society.
 The term Industrial Revolution was popularized by American economic
historian Arnold Toynbee to describe Britain's economic development in
1760-1840.
 Since Toynbee's time, Industrial Revolution had been broadly used applied
as a process of Economic transformation than as a period of time in a
particular setting.
 This explains why some areas, such as China and India, did not begin their
first industrial revolutions until the 20th century, while others, such as the
United States and western Europe, began undergoing “second” industrial
revolutions by the late 19th century.
 Not until two Englishmen, William and John Cockerill, brought the Industrial
Revolution to Belgium by developing machine shops at Liège, and Belgium
became the first country in continental Europe to be transformed
economically.

The main features involved in the Industrial Revolution were:

1. Socioeconomic
2. Technological
3. Cultural

The Technological, Socioeconomic, and Cultural changes included the following:

 the use of new energy sources, including both fuels and motive power, such
as coal, the steam engine, electricity, petroleum, and the internal-
combustion engine
 the invention of new machines, such as the spinning jenny and the power
loom that permitted increased production with a smaller expenditure of
human energy
 a new organization of work known as the factory system, which entailed
increased division of labour and specialization of function,
  important developments in transportation and communication, including
the steam locomotive, steamship, automobile, airplane, telegraph, and
radio, and
 the increasing application of science to industry.

1st Industrial Revolution

 In the period 1760 to 1830 the Industrial Revolution was largely confined to
Britain. Aware of their head start, the British forbade the export of
machinery, skilled workers, and manufacturing techniques.
 Not until two Englishmen, William and John Cockerill, brought the Industrial
Revolution to Belgium by developing machine shops at Liège, and Belgium
became the first country in continental Europe to be transformed
economically.
 France became industrial power but it is still behind Britain.
 Other European countries lagged far behind. Their bourgeoisie lacked the
wealth, power, and opportunities of their British, French, and Belgian
counterparts.
 Job security was lacking: workers were frequently displaced by
technological improvements and a large labour pool.
 But even as problems arose, so too did new ideas that aimed to address
them. These ideas pushed innovations and regulations that provided
people with more material conveniences while also enabling them to
produce more, travel faster, and communicate more rapidly.

2nd Industrial Revolution

 In terms of basic materials, the modern industry began to exploit many

natural and synthetic resources
 Combined with these were developments in machines, tools, and
computers that gave rise to the automatic factory.
 In the first half of the 20th century, many countries of Europe socialized
basic sectors of their economies

Industrial Revolution Heritage Sites

THE IRON BRIDGE, SHROPSHIRE- the bridge was the first in the world to be made
of iron and pioneered the use of cast iron in the construction of buildings,
aqueducts and bridges.

DERWENTCOTE STEEL FURNACE, TYNE AND WEAR- Constructed around 1733,

this is the earliest steel-making furnace in Britain and was in use until 1875. It
converted wrought iron to steel, a process known as cementation.

BERNEY ARMS WINDMILL, NORFOLK- This large marsh mill was built in 1865 by
millwrights Stolworthy of Great Yarmouth. It was initially used to grind clinker, a
mixture of chalk and clay used in the making of cement, until 1880.

STOTT PARK BOBBIN MILL, CUMBRIA- Stott Park is the last surviving example of
Lancashire’s 19th-century textile industry, which had over 100 mills in its heyday.

Topic 4: Places, Identities, and Landscapes

CULTURE

 Culture has been called "the way of life"

 Culture is the characteristics and knowledge of a particular group of people,
encompassing language, religion, cuisine, social habits, music and arts.
 "Culture is the acquired knowledge people use to interpret experience and
generate behavior." -James Spradley, Anthropologist
 Culture (from the Latin cultura stemming from colere, meaning "to
cultivate") generally refers to patterns of human activity and the symbolic
structures that give such activities significance and importance.

TOP 3 CULTURES IN THE PHILIPPINES

Respect for Elders

In Filipino culture, respect for elders is highly valued. Children are taught to
address their elders using terms of respect such as “po” and “opo.” They are also
encouraged to perform acts of “pagmamano,” where they take the hand of an
elder and bring it to their forehead as a sign of respect. It involves taking the hand
of an older person and gently bringing it to one’s forehead as a sign of reverence
and respect, usually saying the words “Mano po”. It is commonly done as a
greeting upon seeing the elderly or entering the elder’s home as well as before
leaving or saying goodbye.

Importance:

This tradition showcases the deep respect and value placed on filial piety and
honoring one’s elders. The idea that caring for older people is the responsibility of
their children is rooted as firmly in Filipino society as it is elsewhere in Southeast
Asia.

Bayanihan

 Derived from the word “bayani,” which means hero, Bayanihan refers to
the collective effort of a community in achieving a common goal.
Traditionally, it involved the literal act of neighbors helping a family to
physically move their house to a new location.
 The Bayanihan spirit is a cherished Filipino tradition that emphasizes
community cooperation and helping one another. It involves coming
together as a community to accomplish tasks such as house construction or
moving. This tradition promotes unity, solidarity, and a strong sense of
community within Filipino homes.

Importance:

Through the bayanihan spirit, volunteerism is reinforced and becomes a way of

life to empower communities and promote nation-building.

Bayanihan culture fosters teamwork, which can lead to increased productivity, it

fosters positive work environment where everyone is encouraged to help and
support each other, it encourages an open exchange of ideas, which can lead to
more creative problem-solving, and promotes a sense of community in the
workplace.

Fiestas
Fiestas are an integral part of Filipino culture, deeply rooted in religious and
communal traditions. These celebrations are held in honor of patron saints or
significant events and are marked by vibrant festivities, feasting, processions, and
various cultural activities. Fiestas involve the entire community coming together
to celebrate, with locals and visitors alike participating in the joyful atmosphere.
Communities open their homes and offer hospitality to guests, and households
prepare elaborate feasts to share with neighbors and relatives. Traditional
dances, music, and street performances are also common during fiestas.

Importance:

Festivals are important if we are to understand our history, from social trends to
the economy. They record the patterns of cultural change, bring communities
together and broaden our cultural horizons.

TOP 3 CULTURES IN DIFFERENT COUNTRIES

Mexico’s Day of the Dead

It is a vibrant and colorful holiday that celebrates the lives of deceased loved
ones. From October 31st to November 2nd, families create altars adorned with
flowers, candles and offerings of food and drink.

Importance

Its fundamental purpose is to remember the spirits of the dead who aren’t able to
return to the world of the living to be with their families once again.

China’s Red Envelope

Red envelopes are filled with money are a traditional gift during the Lunar New
Year. These envelopes, known as “hongbao” are given to children or unmarried
adult as a way to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.

Importance:
These envelopes hold significance beyond their decorative exterior, playing a
crucial role in conveying good wishes, blessings, and symbolizing the essence of
family and community.

Bread and Salt in Russia

In Russian culture, hosts of the house often offer their guests (esp. tourists,
officials, respectable or favorite guests) bread and salt. They dip the bread in salt.

The sharing or breaking of bread and carefully dipping it in salt signals the
beginning of a friendship.

Importance:

This is important because this tradition shows their hospitality. The bread
symbolizes wealth in Russia and the salt is viewed as something that wards off the
evil spirits. Also, Middle Ages Russian people view that sharing bread and salt with
the enemies would turn them into close friends.

LANDSCAPES

all the visible features of an area of countryside or land, often considered in terms
of their aesthetic appeal.

a section or expanse of rural scenery, usually extensive, that can be seen from a
single viewpoint.

a picture representing natural inland or coastal scenery.

TOP 3 LANDSCAPES IN THE PHILIPPINES

Banaue Rice Terraces

The terraces illustrate a persistence of cultural traditions and remarkable

continuity and endurance, since archaeological evidence reveals that this
technique has been in use in the region for 2000 years virtually unchanged.

Importance:
The importance that Banaue Rice Terraces are expressing can be found on the
fact that the area is an actual representation of a 2000 years old history. The rice
terraces illustrate a unique and notable ancient lifestyle that was harmoniously
paired with the preservation of the natural setting. The ethnic minority of Ifugaos
achieved to promote sustainability at a great extend as they were cultivating rice
without destroying the landscape. This exceptional agricultural method was then
transferred from generation to generation enabling environmental preservation.

Sierra Madre

Sierra Madre is the longest mountain range in the Philippines, fondly called the
“Backbone of Luzon”. It spans almost 700 kilometers in length, with its highest
peak standing at an elevation of 1,266 meters above sea level (for a more concise
comparison, that's approximately three times the height of Petronas Tower).

Importance:

The Sierra Madre is the natural barrier of Luzon from strong typhoons. The Sierra
Madre has prevented numerous typhoons coming from the Pacific Ocean from
divesting the provinces of Luzon, according to environmentalists.

The Sierra Madre mountain range is rich in genetic, species, and habitat diversity,
supplying food, water, and shelter to millions of people. The mountain range
hosts multiple watersheds and some of the Philippines' oldest forests.

Tubbataha Reefs

The property supports the highest population densities known in the world for
white tip reef sharks. Pelagic species such as jacks, tuna, barracuda, manta rays,
whale sharks and different species of sharks also are common here and the
property is a very important nesting, resting and juvenile development area for
two species of endangered marine turtles: green turtles and hawksbill turtles.

Importance:
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a marine protected area and world-renowned
scuba diving site. It is home to more than 1,200 marine species, including sea
grasses and algae, corals, sharks, rays, fishes, sea turtles, seabirds and marine
mammals. The Park is an exceptionally healthy reef ecosystem and its strong no-
take level protections ensure this biodiversity stays safe.

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park provides an important habitat for internationally

threatened and endangered marine species.

TOP 3 LANDSCAPES IN DIFFERENT COUNTRIES

USA’s Grand Canyon

A vast canyon carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, renowned for
its immense size, intricate rock formations, and stunning geological history. It's
important both scientifically, as a site for studying Earth's processes, and
culturally, as a symbol of natural beauty and wonder.

Importance:

It is home to numerous rare, endemic (found only at Grand Canyon), and specially
protected (threatened or endangered) plant and animal species.

Mount Everest of Nepal

The tallest peak on Earth, revered for its awe-inspiring height and challenging
climbing routes. It holds great importance in mountaineering history and is a
symbol of human endeavor and exploration.

Importance:

Water is a vital component of life, and over one billion people rely on the
freshwater provided by the Mount Everest watershed.

Great Barrier Reef of Australia

The world's largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometers along the
coast of Queensland. It is crucial for marine biodiversity, supporting a vast array
of species, and is a global icon for environmental conservation efforts.
Importance:

It is hugely valuable to Australia's economy through the activities of tourism,

recreation, commercial fishing and research.

PLACES

 a particular city, town, building, etc.

 an area having unique physical and human characteristics interconnected
with other places.

TOP 3 PLACES IN THE PHILIPPINES

Palawan

Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life,
Palawan is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Importance:

The province of Palawan is known as the Philippine's “last ecological frontier”.

The Palawan BR is an archipelago composed of main island and more than 1,700
islands. It is endowed with rich natural resources and highly diverse flora and
fauna found in both land and sea.

Boracay

Famous for its white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife, Boracay is a popular
tourist destination offering a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment.

Impotance:

Boracay is important nationally as a flagship tourism destination. The tourism

industry is one of the Philippines' main sectors. In 2019, it accounted for 12.7% of
the country's GDP (Almazan, 2020). Tourism growth in Boracay is remarkable.

Bohol’s Chocolate Hills

Famous for its white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife, Boracay is a popular
tourist destination offering a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment.

Importance:

Boracay is important nationally as a flagship tourism destination. The tourism

industry is one of the Philippines' main sectors. In 2019, it accounted for 12.7% of
the country's GDP (Almazan, 2020). Tourism growth in Boracay is remarkable.

TOP 3 PLACES WORLDWIDE

Paris, France

Renowned for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame
Cathedral, and Louvre Museum, Paris is celebrated as the epitome of romance,
culture, and art.

Importance:

Paris is one of the key financial centers in Europe—a role which has been
strengthened since Brexit as some financial activity formerly in London shifted to
Paris. Banks have reportedly relocated over 5000 employees from London to Paris
since the UK left the EU.

Rome, Italy

A city steeped in history, Rome is home to ancient ruins like the Colosseum and
the Roman Forum, as well as magnificent Renaissance and Baroque architecture,
making it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.

Importance:

It is worth to mention that even today, Rome is important not only for Italy, but
for the whole world. It is the center of western civilization and the center of
Christianity. There is a huge number of historical and archeological places,
monuments, paintings and other masterpieces made by most famous artists.

Kyoto, Japan
Known for its traditional temples, gardens, and tea houses, Kyoto is a cultural hub
preserving Japan's rich heritage and offering a glimpse into its centuries-old
traditions and customs.

Importance:

Kyoto served as Japan's capital and Emperors residence from 794, serving as a
center of politics and culture for 1100 years.

GLOBALIZATION

 Globalization is the growing interdependence of the world’s economies,

cultures, and populations, brought about by cross-border trade in goods
and services, technology, and flows of investment, people, and information.
 Globalization is a term used to describe the increasing connectedness of
world cultures and economies.
 It promotes economic growth, creates jobs, makes companies more
competitive and lowers prices for consumers.

DIVERSITY

 variety of differences among people, encompassing race, gender, age,

experiences, talents, skills, and opinions.
 the practice or quality of including or involving people from a range of
different social and ethnic backgrounds and of different genders, sexual
orientations, etc.

Why is Diversity and Interconnection important in a globalized world?

 Global Interconnectedness refers to the ability to understand and function

in an increasingly multicultural, international, yet interconnected
environment. It fosters the development of individuals to become
successful professionals, civic leaders, and informed citizens in a diverse
national and global society.

Effects of Globalization to Cultural Diversity

  Globalization has significantly impacted cultural identity by homogenizing
diverse cultural expressions into a single global culture, particularly in a
popular culture dominated by Western forms. This has marginalized local
cultures, eroded traditional cultural expressions, and commodified culture.
 Great ideas can be transmitted from one culture to another, including new
forms of thinking about economic or political questions.
Topic 5:ASIA, NORTH AND SOUTH AMERICA:PHYSICAL AND CULTURAL PERSPECTIVE

COUNTRIES AND REGIONS

Asian Regions

Asia is the largest of the five continents on Planet Earth in area and population.
The term Asia refers conventionally to the eastern portion of the Eurasian
landmass plus the island country of Japan and the island nations of Maritime
Southeast Asia.

REGIONS
North Asia
North Asia or Northern Asia refers to the vast northern part of Asia east of the
Ural Mountains, also known as Siberia.
Western Asia
Western Asia (Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Cyprus, Syria, Lebanon,
Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Iraq, Oman, Yemen, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia)
Central Asia
Central Asia (Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan)
Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar,

Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor Leste, Vietnam)

East Asia
East Asia (China, Mongolia, North Korea, South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan,
Macau
South Asia
South Asia (Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal,
The Maldives, Iran)
POPULATION CONTRAST
Population of Asia
The current population of Asia is 4,775,085,602 as of Saturday, March 9, 2024,
based on the latest United Nations estimates.
Population of North America
The current population of Northern America is 380,380,211 as of Saturday, March
9, 2024, based on the latest United Nations estimates
Population of South America
The current population of South America is 441,880,459 as of Saturday, March 9,
2024, based on the latest United Nations estimates

ECONOMY AND RESOURCES OF ASIA, SOUTH AMERICA, NORTH AMERICA

Asia, North America, and South America are three continents with distinct
characteristics, yet they also share similarities in certain aspects. Here’s a
comparison and contrast of these:

Geography

Asia- The largest continent, known for its diverse landscapes including deserts
(like the Gobi Desert), mountains (Himalayas), rainforests (Southeast Asia), and
plains (like the Indo-Gangetic Plain).
South America – Known for the Andes Mountains, Amazon Rainforest, Atacama
Desert, and the Amazon River, which is one of the longest rivers globally
North America-- Home to varied geography including mountains (Rocky
Mountains, Appalachians), plains (Great Plains), forests (like the Amazon
Rainforest), and coastal regions

POLITICAL GEOGRAPHY
Territorial Size and Diversity
Asia – Largest continent with diverse political systems ranging from democratic
countries like India and Japan to authoritarian regimes like China and North
Korea. Geopolitical tensions exist, such as in the Korean Peninsula and the South
China Sea.
North America -Dominated by the United States and Canada, known for stable
democracies with federal systems. Mexico adds cultural and political diversity,
with challenges like drug-related violence and migration issues.
South America – Comprises various political systems, including democracies like
Brazil and Chile, along with socialist regimes like Venezuela.

FAMILY
Highly group-oriented people who place a strong emphasis on family connection
as the major source of identity and protection against the hardships of life.
FESTIVAL
1.Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival (China)

2. Hindu Thaipusan Festival(Malaysia)

3. Holi Festival (India)
4. Panagbenga Festival (Philippines)
5. Taiwan Lantern Festival
6. The Songkran Festival (Thailand)
SPORTS
Due to vastness of Asia, popularity of sports varies greatly across the continent.
CUISINE
Rice is a staple ingredient in every Asian food; Different varieties are popular in
various regions
CULTURE OF NORTH AMERICA
RELIGION
Christianity is defined as the religion in which people adhere to the teachings of Jesus Christ
and follow the rules of the holy book, i.e., the Bible. Christianity is the most popular religion in
North America. It accounts for approximately 75% of the total population of North America.
CUISINE
North American food consists of ingredients coming from four areas: Canada, the United States,
Mexico, and Central America.
FASHION
The United States is the leading country in the fashion design industry, followed by France,
Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Japan
MUSIC
South American nations have rich variety of music some famous genres include Samba from
Brazil, Tango from Argentina & Uruguay , and Cumbia from Colombia.
ART
Beyond the rich tradition of indigenous art, the development of South America visual art owed
much to the influence of Spanish, Portuguese and French

Topic 6:Europe, Africa & Australia/ Oceania

Europe is the second smallest continent known for its rich history and diverse
cultures.

It has 4 regions:

Western Europe- consists of 9 countries, including France and Germany, which

are the region's largest political and economic powers. Germany has a population
of around 83 million and the world's fourth-largest economy, while France has a
population of about 63 million and the seventh-largest economy globally

Eastern Europe- Eastern Europe is the largest and most populous subregion in
Europe, spanning from the Ural Mountains in the east to the western borders of
Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria. The
subregion includes 10 countries. Russia, while primarily located in Asia, is the
largest and most populated country in Eastern Europe.

Northern Europe- consists of 10 countries, with a population of approximately

106 million people. The United Kingdom is the most populous country in the
subregion, accounting for more than half of the population.

Southern Europe- Birthplace of ancient civilizations like Greece and Rome, known
for their contributions to governance, science, architecture, and the arts. The
most populous country is Italy, having more than 60 million people living within
its borders. And Europe is home to the world’s smallest and least populous
country, Vatican City, which has less than a thousand inhabitants

 Europe population is equivalent to 9.32% of the total world population.

 Europe is abundant in mineral resources, encompassing rocks and
structures from various geologic periods. Also, prospecting and mining are
integral to Europe's economy. Europe’s rich agricultural and industrial
 diversity has made the continent a center of trade and commerce for
centuries.
 Europe exhibits a range of political systems, including democracies,
monarchies, and republics.

CULTURAL LIFE IN EUROPE

 Europe boasts a rich and diverse cultural landscape, encompassing an array

of traditions, art forms, and historical influences.
 One of the largest art museum in the world can be found in Europe, the
Louvre is known across the globe for exhibiting some of the world's most
famous artworks, including the Mona Lisa by Leonardo Da Vinci.
 European literature is known for timeless classics and prolific authors. one
of the most famous was the historical novel entitled Les Miserables BY
Victor Hugo.
 One of the most famous festive in Europe that add a vibrant and
celebratory spirit to European life is the Venice Festival held in Italy.
 Theater and drama have been integral to European performing arts. Some
examples include the Schuhplattler (“slap dance”) of Germany and Austria,
the jota of Spain.
 One of the best known food from Europe is Pizza and Ramen.

SOME UNUSUAL EUROPEAN PRACTICES

 Throwing pottery out of windows- During this tradition, large jugs with
water are thrown from balconies onto the ground in the town’s center
throw out their old belongings at the start of the new year to make room
for new belongings in the new year.
 They are very proudly hosts a human chess game.
 Bear Dance
 Bathtub Regatta, Belgium

AFRICA

 Africa is the second-largest continent in the world, both in terms of land

area and population comprises 54 recognized countries.
 Africa's population is around 1.49 billion people as of 2024, with a
significant annual growth rate of 2.37%. The continent is diverse, consisting
of subregions like Eastern, Western, Northern, Central, and Southern
Africa.
 Africa is rich in natural resources, including minerals, oil, natural gas, and
arable land.

 Africa's economy has evolved from traditional reliance on agriculture and

crafts to a diverse landscape including sectors like agriculture, mining,
manufacturing, services, and technology. Challenges such as poverty,
inequality, inadequate infrastructure, and political instability persist.
 The political landscape of Africa right now in South Africa it is a
constitutional democracy.

CULTURAL LIFE OF AFRICA

 People in Africa had their own traditional music often includes intricate
rhythms played on drums and other percussion instruments.
 They also have African dance forms which are known for their energetic
and expressive movements, often accompanied by music.
 They are known for woodcarvings by which their Artists produce intricate
sculptures and carvings, reflecting the cultural and spiritual traditions of
their communities.
 Colorful beadwork is a prominent form of African craft, often used in
jewelry, clothing, and accessories. Traditional clothing symbolizes ethnic
identity, social status, and cultural pride within African communities.
 African Storytelling and Oral Traditions are important for them as it serves
as passing down history to future generations and it also serves a a good
way of community bonding.
 Many people living in Eastern, Western and Southern African villages are
farmers. Traditional African food is also sold at outdoor markets.
Traditional food includes, cassava, maize, mille and plantains.
  African countries are very traditional, with most woman and girls carrying
out the task of cooking meals.
 Many people are able to speak versions of English, Portuguese of French. In
Northern Africa Arabic is spoken, whereas in East Africa Swahili is the
dominant language.
 Around 63% of the population identifies as Christian, meaning they follow
the Christian god. Around 30% identify as Muslim, meaning they follow
Allah.

OCEANIA/ AUSTRALIA

 Oceania is a geographical region comprising several subregions, including

Australasia, Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia.
 It is located in the Pacific Ocean and is often considered one of the
continents of the world.
 Australia is the most populous country in Oceania, with around 26.01
million people in 2022.
 The estimated population of Oceania is around 43.5 million, which accounts
for approximately 0.54% of the world's population of 7.8 billion.
 The country's key economic sectors include financial services, mining,
manufacturing, and agriculture.
 Australia’s system of government is based on the British Westminster
system. Australia has a mixed system of government.

Representative democracy—Australians vote for members of parliament to make

laws on their behalf.

Constitutional monarchy—The King is Australia’s head of state but does not have
absolute power and is required to follow the Australian Constitution. The King
gives his powers to the Governor-General.

Federation of states—A Federation is a group of states who have given some of

their law-making powers to a national government and kept some law-making
powers for local matters.

CULTURAL LIFE IN AUSTRALIA

 Aboriginal Australian cultures often had strong spiritual relationships with
the local environment. They developed myths to explain the landscape.
 Rugby is a very popular sport throughout the continent—more popular
than soccer, baseball, or cricket.
 The Festival of Pacific Arts is a festival is the most famous here hosted every
four years in a different country.
 One of the most unique celebration in Australia is the GAY AND LESBIAN
MARDI GRAS IN SYDNEY.
 One of the most iconic dishes in Australia is Unique dishes like meat pies
and pavlova reflect the heritage and innovation.
 The predominant religion in Australia is Christianity, while some are also
practicing other faiths, including Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Judaism.
 Funerals are attended by family members and friends and often include a
religious ceremony.
 Australians are family-oriented.
 Everyone shares in the housework.
 A handshake, smile, nod and greeting of “hi” or “how are you going?” are
common greetings in Australia
 Australians appreciate open communication and honest discussions.
 Australians strongly believed that all professions must have equal
treatment.
 Australians love to drink alcoholic beverages and ranks third in the most
alcohol consumed per capita each year.