Human Geography

Human geography is a branch of geography that focuses on the study of the human population and their cultural, economic, and social interactions with the environment. It examines the distribution of human populations across the globe, the impact of human activity on the natural environment, and the ways in which people use and manage natural resources.

Learn about the different areas of human geography including economic geography, population geography, cultural geography, and more.

Bar chart show voting versus non voting cardinals.

Map and Chart of Cardinals and the 2025 Papal Conclave

Caitlin Dempsey

The 2025 papal conclave is underway. Here's which countries the 135 voting cardinals eligible to elect the next pope come from.

A collage of satellite images showing various agricultural patterns.

Types of Agricultural Patterns Visible from Space

Elizabeth Borneman

Agricultural landscapes, when viewed from space, reveal distinct patterns shaped by historical practices, local geography, and technological influences.

The Earth can be divided into two main systems: the geosphere and the biosphere. Image: USGS, public domain.

What are the Earth System’s Four Spheres?

Caitlin Dempsey

The systems of the earth can be divided into two main areas: geosphere and biosphere.

Tourists with cameras photography a grizzly bear crossing the road.

The Recreational Value of Nature and Wildlife

Mark Altaweel

Measuring the economic benefits of wildlife and outdoor areas supports conservation with tools like the NPS Visitor Spending Effects.

The Diomedes Islands mark the closest point between Russia and the United States.

These Two Countries are Separated by 2.4 Miles and 21 Hours

Caitlin Dempsey

There exists a geographic point where two of the largest countries in the world are only separated by a 2.4 miles but are 21 hours apart.

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