How has East Asia's geography affected where people live? Identify cause and effect
One major factor in determining where people live in East Asia is its varied geography.
1. Coastal areas: Many people in East Asia live along the coastlines due to the easy access to fishing and transportation. The proximity to bodies of water also provides opportunities for trade and economic development. This has led to the growth of major cities like Shanghai, Tokyo, and Seoul.
2. River valleys: People have settled in the river valleys of East Asia, such as the Yellow River and Yangtze River in China, due to fertile land for agriculture and access to water for irrigation. This has been a major factor in the development of agriculture-based societies in the region.
3. Mountainous regions: The mountainous terrain in East Asia, such as the Himalayas and Japanese Alps, has limited settlement in these areas. People tend to live in the valleys and flatlands rather than in the rugged mountains, as agriculture and infrastructure are more difficult in these areas.
Overall, the geography of East Asia has influenced settlement patterns by determining where people can access resources such as water, fertile land, and transportation routes. As a result, populations tend to concentrate in coastal areas and river valleys, while mountainous regions remain sparsely populated.