Historic-geographical roots of the formation and dilapidation of the bolivian territory

Abstract

This work rescues the process of territorial formation of Bolivia since colonial times emphasizing the influences posed by its geographical position, physical attributes, colonization, political and economic development processes. Results reveal that despite the possibilities granted by the rich arrangement of geographical location and physical elements, Bolivians have had tremendous difficulties to build and keep their territorial cohesion. Among the major obstacles are communication difficulties, demographic and economic concentration in the Altiplano, the ethno-linguistic composition of the population, the small military contingent and the lack of resources of the armed forces. Key words: geopolitics; geo-history; Bolivia.