A group of people who share a common cultural or ethnic identity but are divided across multiple countries’ political borders is referred to by this concept. These populations often maintain a sense of shared heritage, language, religion, or history, despite residing in distinct sovereign states. An example of this is the Kurdish people, who are spread across Turkey, Iraq, Iran, and Syria, yet maintain a distinct cultural identity and, in some instances, political aspirations. Another illustrative case is the Korean people, divided between North and South Korea.
Understanding this term is crucial in human geography for several reasons. It allows for a deeper comprehension of geopolitical dynamics, ethnic conflicts, and migration patterns. The presence of such groups can influence international relations, particularly when they seek autonomy or unification. Historically, these divisions have been a source of both cooperation and conflict, shaping political landscapes and redrawing borders. Awareness of this term provides a framework for analyzing issues of national identity and state sovereignty within a global context.
