Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography Practice Exam

What does the term 'sequent occupance' refer to in cultural geography?

1. The management of resources among successive populations

2. The cultural imprints left by successive societies on a location

3. The impact of tourism on local culture

4. The changes in land use over time due to economic shifts

The correct answer is: The cultural imprints left by successive societies on a location

The term 'sequent occupance' in cultural geography specifically refers to the idea of cultural imprints that successive societies leave on a particular location. This concept highlights how different groups of people, through various periods of time, have influenced and shaped the cultural landscape, architecture, land use, and social practices of an area. Each group builds upon or modifies what was there before, leading to a layering effect of cultural characteristics. For example, in cities that have experienced various waves of immigration, you might find neighborhoods that reflect the architectural styles, languages, and customs of those different groups—each contributing to the identity of the area over time. This cumulative cultural pattern demonstrates the dynamic nature of human settlement and interaction with the environment, capturing the essence of how places are continually transformed through human activity.