Introduction to Superpowers
Geography: Edexcel A Level, topic 9.1.1
What is a Superpower?
A superpower can be defined as a country with a dominating power and influence. It means that this country influences different parts of the world beyond their own borders. We use three terms to describe countries' influence:
Hegemon
- A hegemon is a supreme power or a country that is dominant over others. Their power extends to several different countries.
- The USA is the only country that can currently claim to be a hegemon.
Emerging power
- An emerging power is a country that has increasing influence but is not yet dominant.
- We can refer to the BRIC nations (Brazil, Russia, India and China) as emerging powers.
Regional power
- A country that exerts influence over other countries in the immediate area of the same region.
- China and India are regional powers in Asia and currently developing to become (possible) superpowers.
Test yourself on Introduction to Superpowers
What is the only country that can currently claim to be a hegemon?
What does this definition describe?
"A supreme power or a country that is dominant over others."Who are the two main regional powers in Asia?