Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and problems for Geography

Natural Gas: Problems and Market Dynamics

Natural gas problems: They are not renewable. Asian economies are beginning to increase demand for the product, which will raise prices. Major producers: Russia, USA, Iran, China, Saudi Arabia. Refiners: Western USA. Consumers: USA, Japan, Germany, and Asian economies.

Problems with Natural Gas

Producers are trying to regulate and control the market, similar to the oil market. The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), comprised of 11 states, controls 78% of petroleum. Oil prices are still high but not excessive, to prevent economic crises (drop in consumption).

Consumers are diversifying their purchasing locations and seeking energy alternatives, although these are often more expensive.... Continue reading "Natural Gas and Water Resources: Challenges and Solutions" »

The Rise of Cities and the Bourgeoisie

The emergence of the bourgeoisie and the growth of cities profoundly transformed feudal society. Noble kings and ecclesiastical authorities granted personal freedom to city inhabitants, along with rights such as holding markets. This allowed for the formation of a new, non-privileged social group.

Defining the Bourgeoisie

The bourgeoisie comprised artisanal people dedicated to work and trade, who depended on no feudal lord.

City Governance and Civic Elite

Cities formed assemblies of all their neighbors to organize their governments. They elected judges who protected finances, maintained order, and administered justice, all directed by a mayor. Ultimately, city government often fell into the hands of the richest... Continue reading "Medieval Urban Transformation: Bourgeoisie, Crises, and Revival" »

Economic and Demographic Shifts in Habsburg Spain

The 16th Century: Growth and Prosperity

The 16th century was marked by significant demographic and economic expansion, largely fueled by wealth from the Americas.

• Demographics: The population grew due to increased birth rates and greater financial stability.
• Economy: Major development facilitated the distribution of products throughout Europe and the Americas.
• Industry: Primarily craft-based, characterized by strong textile exports (wool), meeting high demand.
• Agriculture: New lands were cultivated, leading to job creation.
• Urban Centers: Towns grew stronger, experiencing less hunger and fewer outbreaks of disease.

The 17th Century: Crisis and Retreat

The 17th century brought a period of economic contraction... Continue reading "Habsburg Spain: 16th Century Boom and 17th Century Decline" »

Life and Labor in Early 20th Century Barcelona

Precarious Living Conditions

At the dawn of the 20th century, working-class families in Barcelona endured conditions of near-subsistence. They often lived in cramped, small houses, frequently shared with other families. Barcelona itself was undergoing rapid growth, leading to a process of social disintegration, particularly affecting its most vulnerable populations.

The city's social fabric was distinctly stratified:

• Immigrants: Many resided in the older, more established areas.
• Bourgeoisie: Concentrated in the affluent Eixample district.
• Artisans: Settled in villages recently annexed by Barcelona.
• Working Class: Predominantly located in the industrial zones.

Harsh Working Environments

Working conditions... Continue reading "Barcelona's Labor History: From Precariousness to the 8-Hour Day" »

The French Revolution was the most important political change that occurred in Europe in the late eighteenth century. It was not only important for France, but served as a precedent for other countries, where similar social conflicts broke out against an anachronistic and oppressive regime, such as the monarchy. This revolution represented the triumph of a poor people, oppressed and tired of injustice, over the privileges of the feudal nobility and the absolutist state.

Absolute Monarchy and Economic Collapse

During the reign of Louis XIV (1643–1715), France was under the sway of an absolute monarchy. The power of the king and the nobility was the basis of this regime, but in reality, the state was in a precarious economic situation. This situation... Continue reading "Roots of the French Revolution: Economic Crisis and Social Conflict" »

America's Roaring Twenties: Uneven Prosperity

Who Benefited from the 1920s Economic Boom?

While the 1920s are often remembered as a period of widespread prosperity, the economic boom did not benefit all Americans equally. Certain groups and industries experienced significant gains:

• The Rich and Middle Classes: These groups saw substantial increases in wealth and living standards. By 1929, a staggering one-third of all income was earned by just 5% of the workforce, highlighting the concentration of wealth.
• New Consumer Industries: Sectors like automobiles and electrical goods (e.g., refrigerators, washing machines, radios, vacuum cleaners) thrived. There was massive demand for these new, exciting products. The adoption of the assembly line enabled

EU Tourism Policy: Objectives and Modalities

The European Union's tourism policy aims to achieve several key objectives:

• Facilitating tourism as an element of European integration.
• Promoting new modalities, such as rural tourism and eco-tourism.
• Improving information and protection for tourists.
• Enhancing the preparation of the sector through improved professional training.

Spain's Service Sector: Growth, Types, and Location

The tertiary sector in Spain has grown significantly, reaching a level comparable to other developed countries. This growth is attributed to several factors:

• Increased life expectancy of the population.
• A generalization of the welfare state.
• Increased demand for services from other economic activities.
• Implementation of regulations

The Industrial Revolution: A Transformative Era

The Industrial Revolution was a profound process that accelerated the transition from agrarian societies of the Old Regime to a new phase of significant demographic and economic growth. It transformed society and the political systems of states. This revolution began in England, driven by two key phenomena: demographic change and innovation in agriculture and transport. It addressed issues like subsistence crises, population expansion, and evolving standards of living.

England's Pioneering Role in Industrialization

England's pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution was shaped by five crucial factors:

• Accumulation of Commercial Capital: Reinvestment of profits from trade.
• Expansion of External Demand:

The Industrial Revolution: Origins and Profound Impact

Before the Industrial Revolution, society faced significant limitations that contributed to an economic downturn. Subsistence agriculture and cottage industries dominated, hindered by technological barriers. The population had limited purchasing power, and trade was slow, often hampered by customs duties within countries.

Birth of British Industrialization

In 18th-century Britain, particularly in Lancashire, the industrial process concentrated with the creation of numerous factories. The development of basic industries—textile and steel—marked what is known as the British Industrial Revolution.

Key Drivers of Modern Industry

The development of modern industry was driven by profound transformations... Continue reading "The British Industrial Revolution: Economic and Social Transformation" »

Research and Development (R&D)

Basic research includes all studies aimed at acquiring new scientific knowledge. Applied research involves original work undertaken to acquire new knowledge directed towards a specific practical aim or objective. Development involves the use of acquired knowledge for the production of new materials, products, or processes.

Extensive Landholdings (Landlordism)

Refers to large land areas (typically > 250 Ha in Spain, 100 Ha in the U.S.) often characteristic of Mediterranean regions.

Seafood Gathering

The activity of collecting bivalve molluscs from natural banks found in the sea.

Raw Material Definition

A primary product used in an industrial transformation process. The existence of abundant raw materials forms... Continue reading "Economic and Agricultural Terminology Explained" »