World Cup 2014

Throughout the 2013-2014 school year, look for more information about the geography of football, which is known as "soccer" in the United States. In June and July 2014, The World Cup championships will be held in Brazil for the first time since 1950.

As most fans know, Brazil has won the Cup more often (five times) than any other country, and the game is among the country's most important pastimes. For this reason, the 2014 Cup is expected to be followed with special attention around the world. It will be an excellent time to learn more about the geography of a vast and dynamic country that has experienced many exciting changes in recent years.

Because the tournament involves many teams in several rounds, stadiums in 13 cities will be used, so that viewers of the games will have the opportunity to learn about all of the major regions of what is a far more diverse country than most people realize.

Because members of the EarthView team -- and several of the BSU alumni who have been involved with EarthView in the past -- have extensive experience in Brazil, this EarthView blog will include both academic and first-hand accounts of the geography of Latin America's largest country.

Massachusetts is home to a growing number of people from Brazil or people from the United States who have visited Brazil. The Bay State also has a growing number of economic and academic connections to Brazil, so the World Cup focus comes at a very important time for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Map: Wikipedia

For now, detailed information about the Cup and its venues can be found on Wikipedia and FIFA. Return to this blog throughout the coming year!