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Encounters with Confluences
- Yearbook of the Association of Pacific Coast Geographers
- University of Hawai'i Press
- Volume 81, 2019
- pp. 90-111
- 10.1353/pcg.2019.0013
- Article
- View Citation
- Additional Information
ABSTRACT:
This study examines a selection of river confluences, places that are frequently locations of important physical investigations by hydrologists, geomorphologists, biologists, and engineers, among others. In contrast, confluences can also demonstrate a complex interplay of historical, economic, social, and political factors. Many urban stream confluences were sites of prehistoric human settlement; others are more recent historic sites, or important shipping facilities; and some are simply tourist attractions. From the multitude of stream confluences, this paper examines a small selection from the United States of America and Europe, with a focus on the multiplicity of human associations and layers of meaning.