The US-Mexico border is marked by arid deserts and migration challenges, while the US-Canada border is defined by natural water boundaries like the Great Lakes. These features highlight the geographic influence on political boundaries.
The United States shares its northern and southern borders with Canada and Mexico, respectively, each with distinct characteristics. The U.S.-Mexico border is notable for its length, spanning approximately 1,954 miles, and for the challenging geographic terrain it traverses, including the Chihuahuan and Sonoran Deserts.
This arid and open region poses significant risks for undocumented immigrants seeking jobs in the U.S., impacting immigration control efforts. Agricultural work heavily relies on these workers, with undocumented workers comprising around 24 percent of this sector.
Conversely, the U.S.-Canada border features significant natural landmarks that define its boundary. The eastern part includes the Saint Lawrence Seaway and the Great Lakes, which serve as natural dividers between the two nations. These geographic features reflect the common practice of using natural formations as political boundaries, exemplifying how the physical landscape can shape international borders.
In conclusion, while the U.S.-Mexico border is characterized by its challenging desert landscapes and its role in migration, the U.S.-Canada border is defined by prominent water bodies that foster a natural division between the two countries. Both borders possess unique features that influence the cultural, political, and economic exchanges between the neighbors.