1. China, Mongolia, and Taiwan
CHAPTER 27
China, Mongolia, and Taiwan
Section 1: Natural Environments
Section 2: History and Culture
Section 3: The Region Today

2. SECTION 1
Natural Environments
Question:
What types of climate are found in the various regions of China, Mongolia, and Taiwan?

3. Natural Environments SECTION 1
Climate Types in China, Mongolia, and Taiwan
Region
Climate Type
Southeastern China and Taiwan
humid subtropical
Northeastern China
humid continental
Western China
highland
North-central China and Mongolia
semiarid and arid

4. Question: What are some of the key elements of Chinese culture?
SECTION 2
History and Culture
Question:
What are some of the key elements of Chinese culture?

5. Major religions and belief systems
SECTION 2
History and Culture
Elements of Chinese Culture
Language
Mandarin is the official language, but many dialects are spoken. The written language uses some characters derived from pictograms.
Major religions and belief systems
Buddhism
Taoism emphasizes living a simple life in harmony with nature.
Confucianism centers on family loyalty, duty, and education.
Artistic traditions
Poetry; calligraphy; landscape painting; pottery, especially porcelain; wooden houses built on stone foundations, tiled roofs that curve upward

6. Question: What are some important geographic facts about Mongolia?
SECTION 3
The Region Today
Question:
What are some important geographic facts about Mongolia?

7. Mongolia: Geographic Facts
SECTION 3
The Region Today
Mongolia: Geographic Facts
Area
more than twice as big as Texas
Population
2.6 million
Capital
Ulaanbaatar
Main religion
Tibetan Buddhism
Major resources
coal, copper, oil
Major economic activity
herding livestock–people outnumbered by livestock
Industries
processed foods, clothing, footwear, paper
Major challenges
Mongolia faces food shortages and a shortage of water resources. Its isolated and landlocked location make it difficult to attract investment and economic aid.

8. Chapter Wrap-Up CHAPTER 27
1. How diverse are China’s natural environments? Explain your answer.
2. Why is there a growing concern in China over a lack of water resources?
3. During which dynasty did distinctive Chinese culture traits such as the use of chopsticks and the early use of money develop?
4. How did Mao’s Great Leap Forward cause an environmental disaster?
5. Which region of China is known as China’s rice bowl?