Geography 321- Chicago : Ch 13. The Intermontare West

Parts of Washington, Idaho, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada and Utah are part of the Intermontane West region. The region forms the major parts of the basin-and range. The land is very arid and is influenced by the Pacific air. The region is very dry but there are parts that are sub-humid, semiarid, moderately air, and extremely arid zones. The vegetation is determined by patterns of weather and the climate.

Most of the region is populated by indigenous people and descendants from Mexican, Spanish settlers, Mormons and retirees. Most of the Indigenous settlers settled along rivers for easy accessibility to water. Those who settled in the region soon realized the land was not suited for agriculture. Many early European American settlers were Mormons and were persecuted, because of their believes.

At first irrigated farming was successful by early settlers. A primary economic activity in the region was mining. Gold, silver along with other minerals were discovered in the region, which caused people to settle in. Tertiary and service sectors is important today in the region’s economy. Military bases are also important. Another major contribution to the region’s economy is tourism. The lands amazing scenery attracts many visitors yearly. Las Vegas, Nevada brings many tourists on a daily basis, which helps the economy. Just like Chicago, Las Vegas has a large number of tourists. Many visit Las, Vegas for gambling, marriage or simple vacation. Not only is the region known for their scenery, but also known for promoting gender equality in government and politics. The 1^st female U.S. state governor took office in 1924. Many people live in the cities rather than being isolated. The region continues to change culturally, politically and economically.

Book used:
Hardwick,Shelley, Susan Wiley. The Geography of North America 2nd Edition. Pearson College Div. 2012.