Rainforests, Savannas, Coniferous Forests: Climates & Human Impact
Tropical Rainforest
Tropical rainforests have an equatorial climate, with temperatures around 25ºC year-round and rainfall exceeding 3000mm annually. A constant growing season exists.
- Location: Regions with an equatorial climate.
- Vegetation: Trees have adapted to this climate by growing very tall to reach sunlight. They have an evergreen appearance, and leaves feature drip tips to shed excess rainfall.
Rivers flood for several months each year, and both soils and floods have adapted to the climate.
Read MoreAgricultural Transformation: From Subsistence to Market Economy
From Traditional Agriculture to Market Agriculture
From Subsistence Economy to Market Economy: In the nineteenth century, agriculture underwent a series of significant changes. The introduction of new crops and agricultural machinery led to:
- An increase in food production, which allowed for feeding a growing population, especially in urban areas. This enabled a large proportion of the population, who had previously worked in agriculture, to move to cities and work in industry.
- The process of industrialization
Christopher Columbus’ Voyages and Spanish Colonization
Christopher Columbus’ Vision and Initial Voyage
Christopher Columbus was an experienced sailor familiar with the African routes established by Portugal. He was also familiar with the theories of Toscanelli, who believed the Earth was spherical. Columbus formulated a plan to find a new route to Asia by sailing west, avoiding Africa.
Columbus presented his theory to the King of Portugal in 1482, but a committee of experts rejected it. He then took his idea to Castilla, explaining his plan to the Catholic
Read MoreSpanish Demographic and Economic Shifts (1877-1930)
Demographic Change in Spain (1877-1930)
The Demographic Transition
The demographic transition was a phenomenon common to all countries that underwent industrialization. It was characterized by falling birth rates and mortality rates. Between 1877 and 1930, mortality decreased due to improved feeding, urban infrastructure, lower incidence of disease, and greater cleanliness and hygiene. Average life expectancy increased.
Birth rates also increased as a result of increased urbanization and rationality
Read MoreSpanish Agriculture: Regional Specialization and Agrarian Structure
Spanish Agriculture: Regional Specialization
Agriculture in Spain is characterized by regional specialization due to diverse natural conditions. The country’s varied physical environment results in significant contrasts across regions.
Physical Factors Influencing Agriculture
Relief
Spain’s relief is characterized by a high average altitude and steep slopes, which promote erosion and make mechanization difficult.
Climate
The climate is characterized by low and erratic rainfall, with a strong contrast
Read MoreSpanish Industrialization: A Historical Analysis
Industrialization in Spain
Stages of Industrialization (1850-Present)
1. Beginning of Industrialization (1850-1900)
Causes of Slow Growth:
- Low Population & Purchasing Power: Limited domestic demand hindered industrial expansion.
- Delayed Industrial Process: Lack of raw materials, energy sources, technological and scientific backwardness, lack of capital, political unrest, the War of Independence, the Carlist Wars, regime changes, and the loss of colonies all contributed to delays.
- Minifundismo: Small-