The Most Influential Geographer PROJECT
This project will help introduce you to the most significant geographers and their geographic theories and
models. This research will help you see the patterns and connections of the evolution of the key geographic
concepts, models and inventions associated with notable geographers. These geographers and models come
up in all parts of the APHG exam.
GEOGRAPHERS
1. Ernst George Ravenstein
14. Walter Rostow
2. Alfred Mahan
15. Thomas Malthus
3. Nicholas Spykman
16. Homer Hoyt
4. Ernst Burgess
17. Immanuel Wallerstein
5. Esther Boserup
18. Norman Borlaug
6. J. H. Von Thunen
19. Friedrich Ratzel
7. C. Harris and E. Ullman
20. Marija Gimbutas
8. Alfred Weber
21. Colin Renfrew
9. P.O. Muller
22. John Borchert
10. P.J. Taylor/R.E. Lang
23. Corrado Gini
11. Wilber Zelinsky
24. Carl Sauer
12. Walter Christaller
25. Harm DeBlij
13. Halford Mackinder
A. Create a resume’ for the person/s you are assigned.
B. Make the resume on 8 x 11 paper for each geographer you are assigned.
C. You should include graphics that illustrate their theory or model as it pertains to Human
Geography and also a picture of the geographer if it is available.
Include >
1. Picture of the geographer if available
2. Lifespan, where each geographer is from/academic institutions/training
3. A description of their geographic accomplishment/s and contribution/s
4. Describe the theory/concepts associated w/the geographer (nature, impact of their work)
5. Designate which part/s of the APHG outline the person/theory/concept goes with and pages in your
textbook that cover that person/theory/concept.
6. Visual of their model if they created one.
7. Write you bibliography/sources at the end of the resume’. You need at least 2 sources in
addition to your textbook.
You will present this information to the class as small poster board (11x14) – we will be taking notes
based on your research. We are depending on each other to gather information so do your part well.
As an evaluation, you will be quizzed about the most influential geographers and models that go w/each
topic on the outline
Some good sources to start you off
http://www.list.org/~mdoyle/theory.html
www.geography.about.com