Europe in the Middle Age (Classic Reprint) - Tapa blanda

Excerpt from Europe in the Middle Age

The earth is not merely the scene Or stage on which history has been enacted, but by its physical forms and climate it has also affected the course of history. It is, therefore, necessary to keep in mind the physical geography of Europe, and to be constantly on the watch for its effects on the development of the peoples and states of Europe. Keeping in view the gen eral Character of this book, it would be out of place to do more than call attention to its mountain systems, its plains, its coast, its river systems, and its Climate, and the effects which they tend to have on the life of its peoples.

Because of its varied natural conditions Europe is better fitted than any other continent to develop a high Civilization. It has the advantage of size because it and Asia are so joined that they form but one great land mass and are, therefore, but one continent; it is fortunate in its zonal situation, for, al though it extends from the tropical to the arctic, the most of it lies in the temperate zone; it has a great variety of relief and contour, being rich in mountains, valleys, and plains; it has a varied Climate; its river systems are admirably arranged to promote travel and commerce; its rainfall is abundant and fairly well distributed; its flora and fauna are richly diversified; it has, in proportion to its area, the greatest length of coast line, with a large number of good harbors, and, on the whole, an excellent coastal zone.

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