Ellsworth Huntington

Ellsworth Huntington was an American geographer and environmental determinist known for his theories on how climate influences human behavior and civilization development. Born in 1876, he argued that geographical factors, particularly climate, shape cultures and contribute to the prosperity or decline of societies. His most notable work, "Civilization and Climate," suggested that temperate regions fostered creativity and energy, while harsher climates hindered progress. Though his ideas have faced criticism for overlooking social and political factors, Huntington's work significantly impacted geography, anthropology, and environmental studies, prompting discussions about the interplay between environment and human societies.