Prisoners of Geography - Tim Marshall Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is the central argument about Russia in Chapter 1?
Russia’s geography shapes its security concerns and explains its aggressive foreign policy.
Why is the North European Plain significant to Russia?
It provides a flat, open route into Russia, making the country historically vulnerable to invasion.
Which historical invasions influenced Russia’s strategic thinking?
Invasions by Napoleon (1812), Germany in WWI, and Nazi Germany in WWII.
How does geography influence Russia’s desire to control Ukraine?
Ukraine acts as a buffer zone between Russia and potential Western threats via the North European Plain.
Why does Russia seek warm-water ports?
Most of Russia’s ports are ice-bound in winter; warm-water ports are crucial for year-round trade and naval power.
What is the significance of Sevastopol to Russia?
It is a strategic warm-water naval base on the Crimean Peninsula.
How does Russia’s geography limit its economic development?
Vast distances, harsh climate, and limited arable land make infrastructure and agriculture difficult.
Why does Russia fear NATO expansion?
NATO’s proximity threatens Russia’s strategic depth and increases the chance of military encirclement.
How did geography influence the annexation of Crimea in 2014?
Crimea provides naval access and strategic control over the Black Sea.
Why is Siberia both a strength and a weakness for Russia?
It contains vast natural resources but is sparsely populated and difficult to develop due to its harsh climate.
What role does the Ural Mountains play in Russian geography?
They are a modest geographic divider but not a strong barrier, separating European Russia from Asian Russia.
What geographic features isolate Russia from the West?
The North European Plain offers little natural barrier; thus, Russia relies on political/military buffers.
What motivates Russia’s influence in former Soviet states?
Maintaining influence secures strategic depth and protects its borders from Western influence.
How does Russia’s geography affect its military strategy?
It emphasizes control over bordering territories and rapid mobilization due to vast distances.
What is the overarching theme of Chapter 1 on Russia?
Geography has consistently driven Russia’s security-focused and expansionist behavior.
