Name & Class Section:

Human Geography in Detropia

As you watch the movie, answer the questions below from what you remember.

1. What was life in Detroit like when it was the center of car manufacturing?
Life in Detroit during its peak as the center of car manufacturing was vibrant and prosperous. The city had a booming
economy with plenty of job opportunities in the automotive industry, leading to a high standard of living for many
residents. Detroit was known for its strong middle class, bustling neighborhoods, and cultural activities.

2. Why did almost all of the car manufacturing companies leave Detroit?
The car manufacturing companies left Detroit due to several factors, including globalization, competition from foreign
automakers, high labor costs, and the shift of manufacturing to countries with cheaper labor.

3. How are the circumstances in Detroit a result of the New International Division of Labor?
The New International Division of Labor involves the relocation of manufacturing jobs from developed countries to
developing countries to take advantage of lower labor costs. Detroit's circumstances are a direct result of this
phenomenon, as auto manufacturers moved their production facilities abroad to reduce expenses, leading to job losses and
economic decline in the city.

4. How has deindustrialization impacted the quality of life of people in Detroit?

Deindustrialization has significantly deteriorated the quality of life in Detroit. The city's population decreased as people
moved away in search of better opportunities. This decline also affected public services, education, and housing, resulting
in widespread urban decay.

5. What urban problems did Detroit experience as a result of deindustrialization?

Detroit faced numerous urban problems, including high unemployment, poverty, crime, and population decline. Public
services like schools, transportation, and healthcare suffered due to a shrinking tax base.
 6. How has the environment been impacted by the circumstances in Detroit?
The environment in Detroit has been negatively impacted by the abandonment of industrial sites, leading to the presence
of brownfields. These contaminated and unused industrial sites pose environmental hazards. Additionally, the lack of
maintenance in many areas has resulted in neglected parks and public spaces.

7. Why will it be difficult for the city of Detroit to recover from its current circumstances?
Recovery is difficult for Detroit due to several factors: the scale of deindustrialization, the loss of population, the extent of
urban decay, and the financial challenges facing the city.

8. What offers some hope for the future of Detroit?

There are several sources of hope for Detroit's future, including efforts to revitalize the downtown area, investments in
new industries, and the growth of urban agriculture. Community initiatives and support from philanthropic organizations
also play a role in fostering renewal and redevelopment.

9. If you were on the urban planning team brought in by the Mayor, what recommendations would you make to help
him revitalize the city?
Investing in education and job training programs to prepare the workforce for new industries.
Encouraging the growth of small businesses and startups through incentives and support programs.
Name & Class Section:

Human Geography in Detropia

As you watch the movie, try to find how each of the following concepts is exemplified. Record how you saw each of the
terms included in the film. Point form answers are acceptable.

Economic Sectors Comparative Advantage Offshoring New International

the shift from the
secondary sector
(manufacturing) to the
tertiary sector (services)
Shown through the
relocation of
manufacturing to
countries with cheaper
labor costs.
Illustrated by the Division of Labor
movement of auto Reflected in the global
manufacturing jobs to distribution of
other countries. manufacturing jobs.
 Multiplier Effects Brownfields Agglomeration Ancillary Activities
The decline of the auto Abandoned industrial Historical clustering of Supporting industries
industry affects other sites in Detroit. auto manufacturers in around car
local businesses and Detroit. manufacturing.
services.

Brain Drain Globalization Rust Belt Transnational

Skilled workers leaving Impact on local industries Detroit as part of the Corporation
Detroit for better due to global economic declining industrial region Auto companies operating
opportunities. changes. in the US. globally

Urban Decay Zones of Abandonment Squatter Settlements Urban Agriculture

Deterioration of city Areas with numerous Not prominently featured Initiatives to utilize vacant
infrastructure and vacant buildings and but related to housing land for farming.
housing. homes. issues.

Culture of Poverty Public Transportation Urban Planning Gini Coefficient

The cycle of poverty Challenges in maintaining Efforts to redevelop and Reflects income inequality
affecting residents. and improving services revitalize the city. in Detroit