Changing Geography: Changing Politics Answers

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: The Sudanese civil war started as a conflict between the Muslim Arabs in northern Sudan with the Christian and Animist people of southern Sudan. It was both a political war and a religious war; northern Sudan wanted to enforce Islamic law in the south, where the tribes had very different beliefs and traditions. In 2003, the war spread to the Darfur region in western Sudan. The war produced widespread death and famine in southern Sudan, and later in the Darfur region. Over 2.5 million refugees have fled to neighboring countries.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: After World War II, Germany was divided into two states: East Germany and West Germany. East Germany fell under the influence and control of the Soviet Union, while West Germany was aligned with Western Europe and the United States.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Eritrea has faced several challenges since gaining independence from Ethiopia in 1993. The country has only one political party that maintains all of the control. Democratic national elections have yet to be held; the transitional government is still in power, and no constitution has been implemented. Furthermore, territorial disputes with Ethiopia continue. Eritrea's command economy is struggling. Over 80% of the population is engaged in subsistence agriculture. Climate changes have created problems for agriculture, and drought is a major issue. Finally, property damages due to war have proven costly.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: The European Union allows people and goods to move freely between member countries without a passport. The EU also created a single currency, the euro, which has been adopted by most member countries.

Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Taiwan maintains that it is a sovereign, independent state. However, the People's Republic of China does not recognize Taiwan's sovereignty, and claims that the island and its people remain part of China. Other nations in the diplomatic community do not wish to offend China, so they also refuse to recognize Taiwanese independence. This includes the United States. However, although the US does not "officially" recognize Taiwan, the government still provides them with economic and military aid, and the US is committed to protecting Taiwan's sovereignty from Chinese encroachment. As a result, it might be most accurate to state that the US "unofficially" recognizes Taiwan's sovereignty.