The influence of Geography on People and Their

The influence of Geography on People and Their Lifestyles.

Russia

The influence of Geography on the Russian People. Russians are impressed with size and numbers, and much that they do is on a grand scale. This is not unusual for such a vast country. Russians think and act big. Russians think of themselves as members of the community rather than as individuals. Russian collectivism and communality is often called a peculiar feature of Russian national character. The principles of social equality and leveling were a part of Russian character. The brotherhood and mutual support dominated the life instinct. Nature has not been kind to Russia. Much of European Russia and Siberia is very cold most of the year. The harsh climate explains the Russians' strength, their ability to overcome hardships, as well as their patience and submission. Climate has also made them cautious. Their cruel climate, harsh history, and sceptical outlook on life have made Russians value stability, security, social order, and predictability, and to avoid risk.

USA

The influence of Geography on the American People. America is a nation of risk-takers. Most Americans descendants of immigrants who left the known of the Old World for the unknown of the New. The pioneers who lived on the frontier had a hard life, so they had to be tough and self-reliant. Frontier men and women were often facing new problems and situations which needed new solutions. Under these circumstances, they soon learned to experiment with new inventions and new ways of doing things. This willingness to experiment and invent led to another America trait, a sense of optimism that every problem has a solution. The frontiersmen had to overcome many difficulties. Friend and neighbours came for help without any reward. They shared food, together built each other's houses and fought fires. This extraordinary willingness to cooperative gave a rise to American's capacity for volunteer actions. The difficulties of the frontier also shaped the tradition of hospitality : if you didn't take in the stranger and didn't take care of him, there was no one else who would. As the people acquired new territories, they were moving from east to west.

Great Britain

The influence of Geography on the British People. Foreigners have many ideas about what the English are like. For example, some people say the English are always cold and reserved, which means that they don't talk much to strangers, and don't show much emotion. A reserved person never tells you anything about himself. Some people believe the English eat porridge for breakfast and read The Times every day. Many Australians believe that the English always whine and call them "whinging poms" English people are famous for their habit of politieness. It is considered to be polite to give up one's seat to a woman who is standing, to open a door for her, carry things for her, and so on. Most British people expect the person in front of them to hold the door open for them, and think you are rude if you don’t do this. British people keep their old traditions and are very proud of them. They are famous for their sense of humour. English people show a great love for animals. And, of course, English people are found of sports. About 44% of the population spend time gardening. The climate is ideal. British people also grow flowers and have a passion for lawns of grass which stay green throughout the year. We can say there is still a «British nation» , and one of the most characteristic features of Englishmen is their traditions, which they respect.