Source: States and Territories of the United States of America (March 2, 1836 to June 15, 1836), La Chuleta Congela, Wordpress
In order to understand political boundaries, you must first understand how those boundaries are determined. Political boundaries are not just lines on a map; they are representative of the people that live within those lines. For example, after Texas won its independence from Mexico, representatives from Texas met with representatives of the Government of Mexico to work out an agreement as to what the boundaries would be between Texas and Mexico. Analyze the two maps below; notice how the boundary of Texas changes after the agreement.
Source: States and Territories of the United States of America (March 2, 1836 to June 15, 1836), La Chuleta Congela, Wordpress
Source: States and Territories of the United States of America (September 9, 1850 to March 2, 1853), La Chuleta Congela, Wordpress
In these examples, creating the boundary gave both sides an understanding of where their political jurisdiction began. In order for a boundary (or border) to work, both sides have to agree to respect that boundary. Conflicts arise when one side ignores the boundary or the government representing that boundary.
Click on each term blow and learn more about how these terms explain the change in political boundaries. Keep these terms in mind as you progress through the lesson.
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Nationalism is pride in and loyalty to one's country. Throughout history, nationalism has been a factor in major global conflicts. When one country exhibits extreme nationalism, it can lead to conflict with other countries which can impact political boundaries.
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Imperialism is control by one country of the political, economic, or cultural life of another country or region. This leads to changes in boundaries as the weaker country can be occupied or annexed by the dominant country.
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War, a conflict between two countries, is the cause for most boundary changes that occur. During conflicts, one country may occupy another and claim that country for its own possession. Thus, a change in the boundary. This occurred in both World War I and World War II.
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Changes in government can cause a country to become unstable. This instability can lead to countries breaking into factions or becoming vulnerable to imperialistic countries.