How Geography Creates Wealth

Geography drives prosperity through multiple channels:

1. Resource access: Minerals, oil, timber, water enable export wealth (e.g., Saudi oil).
2. Trade & transport: Ports, rivers, straits facilitate commerce (e.g., Singapore, Rotterdam).
3. Climate & agriculture: Favorable conditions boost farm output (e.g., Nile Valley, California).
4. Tourism: Scenery, coasts, heritage attract revenue (e.g., France, Thailand).
5. Real estate value: Location, views, amenities drive property wealth (e.g., NYC, San Francisco).

Physical geography sets the stage for economic activity and wealth concentration.