The mention of "township and range" often finds its way into discussions about U.S. geography, history, and land division, but its significance might not be immediately apparent to everyone. Let's delve into the dynamics of this land measurement and administration system, particularly its relevance in the context of AP Human Geography.
Township and Range, also known as the Public Land Survey System (PLSS), was implemented by the U.S. government in the late 1700s and early 1800s to facilitate systematic land surveying and distribution in the expanding country. Understanding this system not only provides geographical context but also sheds light on the historical and cultural aspects of the American landscape, making it a critical concept in AP Human Geography.
The Evolution of Township and Range
The seeds of the Township and Range system were sown during the presidency of Thomas Jefferson. Before its establishment, land was surveyed haphazardly, leading to confusion and disputes. The PLSS aimed to establish a uniform, scientific approach to land surveying and subdivision.
Inspired by the French system of metes and bounds, Jefferson proposed a new system that would divide land into a Cartesian grid. This method, known as the rectangular survey system, formed the backbone of the Township and Range system, making it a significant development in the organisation of American geography.
The Basics of Township and Range
At the heart of the Township and Range system lies a simple yet effective concept: a rectangular grid overlaying the landscape. This grid consists of sections, townships, and ranges, each term representing a specific division of the land.
Starting from a baseline and a principal meridian, surveyors created a series of north-south lines called meridians, and east-west lines called baselines. These intersect at 6-mile intervals, creating a grid of 6-mile by 6-mile townships. Each township is further divided into 36 sections, each measuring 1 square mile or 640 acres.
Key Components of Township and Range
While sections are the smallest unit in the PLSS, other components like ranges and townships are equally important. Ranges, running from west to east, are denoted by numbers, while townships, running from north to south, are designated by letters. This unique naming convention provides a clear and precise location for any piece of land.
Moreover, the Township and Range system does not adjust for topographical features or natural boundaries. Instead, the inflexible grid is superimposed onto the landscape, sometimes leading to oddly shaped parcels and strips of land. This aspect has significantly influenced land use, zoning, and property boundaries in the United States.
Township and Range in AP Human Geography
AP Human Geography encourages students to examine the spatial patterns and processes that shape our world. The Township and Range system, as a fundamental aspect of American geography, provides an excellent case study for this examination.
By understanding the system's origins, divisions, and impacts, students can explore the intersection of geography, history, and politics. Furthermore, the PLSS demonstrates how human activities, such as land surveying and division, can significantly influence the natural landscape and its perception.
The Role of Township and Range in Spatial Organization
The Township and Range system has played a pivotal role in shaping the spatial organisation of the American landscape. It has facilitated efficient land distribution, provided a standardised means of describing land locations, and influenced the design and layout of towns and cities.
However, it has also led to certain complexities and inefficiencies, such as irregularly shaped properties and land use patterns. Understanding these implications provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between human activities and natural environments.
The System's Impact on American Society and Culture
The PLSS has evolved into a cultural symbol of American society, reflecting the nation's values, priorities, and history. The system's emphasis on order, regularity, and efficiency is deeply entrenched in the American psyche, influencing land management policies and practices.
Moreover, the PLSS has contributed to the perpetuation of certain myths and ideologies about the American landscape, such as the notion of a limitless and infinitely divisible frontier. These cultural aspects, too, are crucial components of AP Human Geography.
The Township and Range system, though seemingly complex and technical, offers a wealth of insights into the multifaceted nature of American geography. From its historical context to its contemporary impacts, the PLSS provides a compelling lens through which to examine and understand the American landscape and its relationships with its people. Next time you drop a pin on a map or traverse a grid of streets, take a moment to appreciate the profound influence of this remarkable system.