Unit 2 · Neighbors & Borders
Straits and canals that control the world
Between Iran and Oman — just 33 km wide. About 20% of all the world's oil passes through here daily. If this strait closes, gas prices worldwide go insane within hours. Iran could theoretically block it, which is why the US Navy is always nearby.
Between Malaysia and Indonesia — the shortest route between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. 25% of all shipped goods pass through here. At its narrowest, it's only 2.8 km wide. Pirates were a serious problem here until the 2000s. Singapore got rich by sitting right at the end of it.
Just 14 km separates Europe (Spain) from Africa (Morocco). You can literally see across. Every ship entering or leaving the Mediterranean passes through here. Ancient Greeks called it the 'Pillars of Hercules' — the edge of the known world.
Built in 1869, cutting through Egypt to connect the Mediterranean to the Red Sea. Saves ships a 7,000 km trip around Africa. 12% of all global trade passes through. When the Ever Given container ship got stuck here in 2021, it cost the global economy $9.6 billion per DAY.
Built in 1914, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific through Central America. Ships are literally lifted 26 meters UP by locks, cross a lake, then lowered back down. Saves a 12,000 km trip around South America. Panama earns $4 billion/year from tolls.
Istanbul, Turkey straddles the Bosphorus strait — half in Europe, half in Asia. Only 700 meters wide at its narrowest. Russia's Black Sea fleet can only reach the open ocean through here. Turkey controls this chokepoint, making it geopolitically critical.
Answer all ten, then see your stars. You can retake it as many times as you like.
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