This tutorial explores the influence of geography, particularly the wind patterns of the Indian Ocean, on cultural developments in the Indian Ocean basin. It relates the expansion of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam across the region over time to the unique geographical forces of the area.
Begin the tutorial by viewing the map below in its entirety. Note the time frame.
Using the following maps from the National Geographic Society, or maps from your text, identify the regions that border the Indian Ocean. In particular, identify South Asia, Southwest Asia, Southeast Asia, and East Africa. These countries comprise the Indian Ocean basin. The Indian Ocean basin also consists of smaller bodies of water such as the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf that are connected to the larger Indian Ocean. Some parts of the Indian Ocean are also known by other names such as the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. See the more detailed map at Indian Ocean Area. List various countries that exist today in each of these areas. In particular, locate India, Somalia, Pakistan, Saudia Arabia, Iran, Indonesia, and Thailand. Using the CIA Factbook, (Select the country to explore from the frame in the top left corner) list the predominant religions in each country. Why do you think Buddhism and Islam are common in these areas? This exercise will help illuminate the process.
First, for a brief overview of the Buddhist, Hindu, and Islamic religions, see The World Religions.
Review the map by clicking the icon above. Note that the map shows wind patterns in the Indian Ocean basin. For further information on these wind patterns, or Monsoons, read What is a Monsoon? For thousands of years, this weather pattern has shaped the interaction of the people living within the Indian Ocean basin. For example, read the brief essay at Dhows. For Images that relate to this essay, go to Swahili Culture. Identify geographically where Swahili culture is located. How was it affected by the wind patterns of the Indian Ocean? Play close attention to its religious history. Also see:
Identify each place on the map and explain how geography influenced their religious development.Now review the map in its entirety again. After completing these exercises, explain the process which led to the spread of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam throughout parts of the Indian Ocean basin across space and time. What role did geography and geographic location play? At what time periods did each religion expand throughout parts of the region? How did this diffusion of religion shape various parts of the regions identified on the map such as Java, Khmer, Kilwa, and Malacca?
