11.3.1

Intro to Nation States

Test yourself

Nation States

Nation states are varied and have different histories. A state is a territory over which no other country holds power or sovereignty. Some characteristics of nation states are:

Illustrative background for National sovereign statesIllustrative background for National sovereign states ?? "content

National sovereign states

  • National sovereign states have a wide range of ethnic, linguistic and cultural unity & diversity.
  • The UK nation state includes several nations (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) within it.
  • A nation state can contain a range of people with different religions, faiths and dialects/languages.
Illustrative background for Mix of culturesIllustrative background for Mix of cultures ?? "content

Mix of cultures

  • Some states have evolved with a wide mix of peoples. These are often described as 'melting pots':
    • The United States saw white colonists join the native indigenous people. Over 4 million Irish people arrived between 1820 and 1930. Lots Italians, Germans and European Jews arrived in the 1800s and 1900s.
    • Singapore has a wide range of people from different ethnic backgrounds. Lee Kuan Yew (almost a benevolent dictator) mandated that English was to be the language to unite the country.
Illustrative background for Homogenous cultureIllustrative background for Homogenous culture ?? "content

Homogenous culture

  • Some states have evolved with a narrow range of characteristics and have a homogeneous culture.
  • Iceland is an example of this.
  • Historical migration patterns, physical isolation and political isolation can all partially explain why this can happen in certain places.

Jump to other topics

1Tectonic Processes & Hazards

2Option 2A: Glaciated Landscapes & Change

3Option 2B: Coastal Landscapes & Change

4Globalisation

5Option 4A: Regenerating Places

6Option 4B: Diverse Places

7The Water Cycle & Water Insecurity (A2 only)

8The Carbon Cycle & Energy Security (A2 only)

9Superpowers (A2 only)

10Option 8A: Health & Human Rights (A2 only)

11Option 8B: Migration & Identity (A2 only)

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson