Great Powers and Geopolitical Change

By Jakub J. Grygiel | Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press

About the book

Named by Foreign Affairs as a book to read on geopolitics.

In an era of high technology and instant communication, the role of geography in the formation of strategy and politics in international relations can be undervalued. But the mountains of Afghanistan and the scorching sand storms of Iraq have provided stark reminders that geographical realities continue to have a profound impact on the success of military campaigns. Here, political scientist Jakub J. Grygiel brings to light the importance of incorporating geography into grand strategy. He argues that states can increase and maintain their position of power by pursuing a geostrategy that focuses on control of resources and lines of communication.

Grygiel examines case studies of Venice, the Ottoman Empire, and China in the global fifteenth century—all great powers that faced a dramatic change in geopolitics when new routes and continents were discovered. The location of resources, the layout of trade networks, and the stability of state boundaries played a large role in the success or failure of these three powers. Grygiel asserts that, though many other aspects of foreign policy have changed throughout history, strategic response to geographical features remains one of the most salient factors in establishing and maintaining power in the international arena.

Editions of Great Powers and Geopolitical Change

Hardcover
ISBN 9780801884801
Paperback
ISBN 9781421404158
EBook
ISBN 9780801889615

Read an Excerpt

Named by Foreign Affairs as a book to read on geopolitics.

In an era of high technology and instant communication, the role of geography in the formation of strategy and politics in international relations can be undervalued. But the mountains of Afghanistan and the scorching sand storms of Iraq have provided stark reminders that geographical realities continue to have a profound impact on the success of military campaigns. Here, political scientist Jakub J. Grygiel brings to light the importance of incorporating geography into grand strategy. He argues that states can increase and maintain their position of power by pursuing a geostrategy that focuses on control of resources and lines of communication.

Grygiel examines case studies of Venice, the Ottoman Empire, and China in the global fifteenth century—all great powers that faced a dramatic change in geopolitics when new routes and continents were discovered. The location of resources, the layout of trade networks, and the stability of state boundaries played a large role in the success or failure of these three powers. Grygiel asserts that, though many other aspects of foreign policy have changed throughout history, strategic response to geographical features remains one of the most salient factors in establishing and maintaining power in the international arena.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Great Powers and Geopolitical Change about?

Named by Foreign Affairs as a book to read on geopolitics.

In an era of high technology and instant communication, the role of geography in the formation of strategy and politics in international relations can be undervalued. But the mountains of Afghanistan and the scorching sand storms of Iraq have provided stark reminders that geographical realities continue to have a profound impact on the success of military campaigns. Here, political scientist Jakub J. Grygiel brings to light the importance of incorporating geography into grand strategy. He argues that states can increase and maintain their position of power by pursuing a geostrategy that focuses on control of resources and lines of communication.

Grygiel examines case studies of Venice, the Ottoman Empire, and China in the global fifteenth century—all great powers that faced a dramatic change in geopolitics when new routes and continents were discovered. The location of resources, the layout of trade networks, and the stability of state boundaries played a large role in the success or failure of these three powers. Grygiel asserts that, though many other aspects of foreign policy have changed throughout history, strategic response to geographical features remains one of the most salient factors in establishing and maintaining power in the international arena.

What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Great Powers and Geopolitical Change?

Society and Social Sciences > Politics and government > International relations

Where can I read a sample of Great Powers and Geopolitical Change?

You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780801884801

Who is/are the Author/s of the book Great Powers and Geopolitical Change?

Jakub J. Grygiel

Who is the Publisher of the book Great Powers and Geopolitical Change?

Johns Hopkins University Press

What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?

Great Powers and Geopolitical Change is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780801884801) and paperback(ISBN 9781421404158) and ebook(ISBN 9780801889615)

Where can I buy Great Powers and Geopolitical Change online or support local independent bookshops?

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Where can I buy Great Powers and Geopolitical Change?