Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

What describes a superimposed boundary?

1. A boundary agreed upon by local governments

2. A boundary based on environmental features

3. A boundary forced on a territory after existing boundaries are already in place

4. A boundary determined by cultural factors

The correct answer is: A boundary forced on a territory after existing boundaries are already in place

A superimposed boundary is characterized as a boundary that has been imposed on a region or territory, often without regard to the existing cultural or social patterns. It typically occurs when external powers, such as colonial authorities, draw boundaries without considering the pre-existing cultural divisions or the consensus of the local populations. This action can lead to conflicts and tensions, as the imposed boundaries may split groups with shared cultural identities or bring together groups with longstanding rivalries. For example, many African nations have superimposed boundaries that were drawn during colonial times, leading to ongoing conflicts since the borders do not correspond to the diverse ethnic and cultural landscapes of the continent. This distinction highlights the significance of understanding the historical context surrounding boundary formations in geography.