What is Geography?

Geography is the study of the Earth’s surface, its physical features, climate, and the relationship between humans and their environment. The word Geography comes from the Greek words:

1. "Geo" (Earth)
2. "Graphia" (Description)

It is a broad field divided into two main branches:

1. Physical Geography – Studies natural features like mountains, rivers, climate, and ecosystems.
2. Human Geography – Focuses on human activities, cultures, economies, and interactions with the environment.

Father of Geography: Eratosthenes

1. The Greek scholar Eratosthenes of Cyrene (276 BCE – 194 BCE) is called the "Father of Geography."
2. He coined the term Geography and accurately estimated the Earth’s circumference.
3. He also created one of the first maps of the known world.

Father of Modern Geography: Alexander von Humboldt

1. The German geographer Alexander von Humboldt (1769 – 1859) is known as the Father of Modern Geography.
2. He introduced scientific methods in geography and emphasized field observations, climate studies, and ecosystems.
3. His book Cosmos influenced many future geographers.

Father of Human Geography: Carl Ritter

1. Carl Ritter (1779 – 1859) is considered the Father of Human Geography.
2. He studied the relationship between humans and their environment.
3. His work helped develop regional geography.

Father of Indian Geography: Ptolemy & Varahamihira

1. Ptolemy (2nd century CE), a Greek scholar, wrote Geographia, describing the world's geography.
2. In India, Varahamihira (6th century CE) contributed to geography through his book Brihat Samhita, covering climate, landforms, and natural resources.