How has Europes coast affected its culture and settlement patterns?
This may explain a few things. Generally, seafaring coastal towns attract more wealth through trade, bringing jobs and opportunities for entrepreneurship. The Wikipedia article may have links to other sources of info, too. Use them.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_Europe
This question is out of control !!! I do not know where to start.
Perhaps divide up into regions of Europe:
1. Eastern Med and Black Sea - Greece, Balkans
2. Western Med - Italy(Etruscan, Roman), French Med coast, Spain
3. Atlantic coast, southern - Portugal, Basques, Frence, Belgium
4. Islands - England, Ireland, Scotland
5. North Sea Coast - Netherlands, Friesland, Germany Denmark, Norway,
6. Baltic - Denmark, Sweden, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Russia after Peter the great and Vikings (Rus) before Peter, Finland
7. Barents Sea - Norway, Russia. World War 2 in particular.
They all have different patterns of development, depending on their coastline and trade partners. I would have to write a book !!
This question has been around for ages in slightly varied forms. See Related Questions below. I wonder which "school" is still including this tired ol' thing. =(
In fact, just Angles, Saxons, Danes and Norse including former Vikings from Normandy in France are worth a few books covering their effect on culture and settlement of England :) Are you writing a PhD dissertation ?
Europe's coast has greatly influenced its culture and settlement patterns. The presence of extensive coastlines in Europe has had a profound impact on various aspects of life.
Firstly, being surrounded by sea on three sides, Europe has a long history of maritime trade and exploration. The easy access to the sea has enabled Europeans to establish coastal trade routes and engage in commercial activities with other regions. This has facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures, leading to the development of diverse societies and influencing the cultural landscape of coastal areas.
Additionally, Europe's coastlines have played a significant role in shaping settlement patterns. Historically, many European cities and towns were established along the coast due to its strategic importance for trade, defense, and access to resources. Coastal areas provided natural harbors and ports, which facilitated economic growth and attracted settlers. Cities like London, Paris, Barcelona, and Lisbon owe their prominence and success partly to their coastal locations.
Moreover, Europe's coastlines have also influenced the development of various industries, such as fishing, shipbuilding, and tourism. Fishing has been a crucial economic activity in coastal regions, providing employment and sustenance for communities. Shipbuilding and maritime trade have thrived along the coast, contributing to economic prosperity and technological advancements.
Furthermore, the natural beauty and recreational opportunities offered by Europe's coastlines have led to the growth of tourism in many coastal areas. The presence of sandy beaches, picturesque landscapes, and historical sites attracts millions of tourists each year. This has had a profound impact on the local economies, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange.
To understand the specific ways in which Europe's coast has affected its culture and settlement patterns, one can explore historical records, archaeological findings, and geographical studies. Additionally, examining the cultural practices, architectural styles, and regional cuisines of coastal areas would provide insights into the unique influences of the coastline on Europe's cultural heritage.