Question 1: Cultural diffusion: Define the term and give an example relevant to the United States.

Answer: Cultural diffusion is the spread of cultural elements such as ideas, practices, or technologies from one group or area to another. An example is the spread of jazz music from New Orleans to other parts of the US.

Question 2: Melting Pot: What does this term refer to in American cultural geography?

Answer: It refers to the United States as a multicultural society where diverse cultures have blended to form a unique American culture.

Question 3: Cultural enclave: Define and provide an example from a US city.

Answer: A cultural enclave is a neighborhood predominantly inhabited by a particular ethnic or cultural group. An example is Chinatown in San Francisco.

Question 4: Acculturation: Explain this process and its significance in the US context.

Answer: Acculturation is the process of cultural change and adaptation when two cultures come into contact. In the US, this is significant as immigrant communities adopt aspects of American culture while maintaining their own traditions.

Question 1: Name three major cultural regions in the United States and describe one characteristic of each.

Answer: The Northeast (diverse urban centers like New York City), the Midwest (traditional farming communities), and the Southwest (Hispanic cultural influence).

Question 2: What is the significance of the Great Migration in shaping cultural diversity in cities like Chicago and Detroit?

Answer: The Great Migration brought African Americans from the southern US to northern cities, significantly increasing cultural diversity and influencing the development of vibrant urban communities.

Question 3: Identify two major factors that have contributed to cultural diversity in Los Angeles.

Answer: Immigration from Latin America and Asia, and the city's role as a major economic and entertainment hub attracting diverse communities.

Question 4: Describe the impact of cultural enclaves on urban social cohesion in Houston, Texas.

Answer: Cultural enclaves foster community support and cultural preservation but can also lead to social segregation, affecting integration and social cohesion.

Question 1: Case Study: The Hispanic Community in Los Angeles The Hispanic population in Los Angeles accounts for over 48% of the city's residents. This community has significantly influenced local culture, cuisine, and business. Many neighborhoods, such as Boyle Heights, are known for their strong Hispanic cultural presence. The community has faced challenges related to integration, economic disparities, and maintaining cultural identity. Based on this case study, answer the following: (a) What are the main cultural contributions of the Hispanic community in Los Angeles? (b) Discuss two challenges faced by this community. (c) How does the presence of a strong cultural enclave influence urban development in Los Angeles?

Answer: The Hispanic community has contributed through cuisine, festivals like Cinco de Mayo, and vibrant businesses. Challenges include economic inequality and difficulties in accessing education and healthcare. The cultural enclave fosters community cohesion but can also lead to social segregation, influencing urban planning and resource allocation.

Question 1: Analyse the causes of cultural diversity in New York City.

Answer: Cultural diversity in New York City results from historical waves of immigration, including Europeans, Asians, and Latinos, driven by economic opportunities and political refuge. Its status as a major port and economic hub facilitated migration, while policies like Ellis Island immigration regulations shaped demographic patterns.

Question 2: Explain why cultural enclaves tend to develop in specific urban areas.

Answer: Cultural enclaves develop due to factors like immigration patterns, economic opportunities, affordability, and social networks that support new arrivals. They often form in accessible neighborhoods where ethnic communities can maintain cultural practices.

Question 3: Analyse how cultural diffusion affects urban cultural landscapes in the US.

Answer: Cultural diffusion leads to the blending and spreading of cultural traits, resulting in diverse urban landscapes. It influences architecture, cuisine, festivals, and language, creating multicultural environments that reflect migration and interaction histories.

Question 1: To what extent have cultural enclaves in US cities promoted social cohesion versus social segregation? Evaluate with reference to specific examples.

Answer: Cultural enclaves can promote social cohesion by providing support networks and a sense of identity, as seen in Chinatown, San Francisco. However, they can also lead to social segregation and limited integration with wider society, as observed in some immigrant neighborhoods. The overall impact depends on policies fostering inclusion, community interaction, and economic integration, making enclaves both beneficial and challenging in urban social dynamics.