Lesson 2 MG Flashcards
What is physical geography?
Study of the environment in terms of the interactions of natural systems: terrain, climate, meteorology, ecosystems, hyrdosphere.
Military geography: Using environmental factors and human systems like culture, economies to give an advantage to military force.
What aspects of physical geography (physical features related to the coast) were important to the selection of where the D-Day landings would take place, and why?
The tidal cycles, weather patterns for the summer, and the longer daylight afforded in the summer made Normandy an attractive place to land. These factors lended themselves to the success of the amphibious launch.
What aspects of physical geography (physical features related to the coast) made Normandy an attractive landing site?
Its proximity to English as a short distance across the English channel.
Weak German defenses
Normany was far from reinforcements/industrial power
Critical harbor of Cherbourg was close to Normandy
Enemy supplies slowed by river crossings
Normandy opposite ports in S England - easy supply/transport of troops
W of Pris-Channel rail lines
Forests in southern England could conceal the Allied massing
Normandy’s location sheltered the beaches from many storms
Expansive terrain to secure and not be canalized
Define site.
Define situation.
List and describe the eight large-scale geographic factors (factors of relative location or situation) that led to the selection of Normandy as the landing site for Operation Overlord.
How did tides and weather (physical geography) influence the timing of the D-Day landings?
Firm sand support heavy tracked vehicles.
Substantial tide range - allowed the allies to land in the mid-tide where the enemy had not emplaced defenses.
Forests in Normandy would later offer concealment.
Explain how the cultural landscape of Normandy influenced the D-Day invasion and the subsequent battle for Normandy.
