Page 12 - Key to Social Studies 5
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The Countries of Europe
• The continent of Europe is bounded by the Arctic Ocean to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the west,
and the Mediterranean, Black, and Caspian Seas to the south.
• Several islands found near the continent, including the British Isles and Malta, are also considered to be
a part of Europe.
• Despite its small size, Europe is the third most densely populated continent after Asia and Africa.
• Most European countries are highly urbanized, and many of the world’s historic cities are found in
Europe: Paris in France, Rome in Italy, Berlin in Germany, Athens in Greece, and Moscow in Russia.
• People settled in Europe thousands of years ago because it has a largely favorable geography.
What is special about Europe?
• About one-third of the continent is arable, or good for farming, and its northern forests are considered
to be some of the most important timber resources in the world.
• The climate in Europe is generally mild because waters from the Gulf of Mexico ow along the
continent’s western coasts. This warm current, or ow of water passing through the ocean, is known as
the Gulf Stream.
Map of Europe
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