The term "historical geography" can be defined as the study of how places and landscapes have changed over time. Synonyms for historical geography can include: historical cartography, cultural landscape studies, environmental history, and geographic history. In historical cartography, maps and other cartographic materials are used to understand the evolution of places, boundaries, and spatial relationships. Cultural landscape studies examine the relationship between human activity and the natural environment, while environmental history focuses on how environmental factors have shaped historical events and human societies. Geographic history explores the impact of geography and spatial patterns on historical events and human cultures. Despite different areas of emphasis, all synonyms for historical geography aim to understand the interplay between space, time, and human experience.