Strait
A naturally formed, narrow waterway that connects two larger bodies of water
Real World Example
In Ancient Greece, straits like the Hellespont (now known as the Dardanelles) were crucial for trade and military strategy, connecting the Aegean Sea to the Black Sea. Control over such straits meant access to trade routes and the ability to influence regional power dynamics. For ancient Greeks, these waterways represented opportunities for economic prosperity and cultural exchange, as well as potential conflicts over dominance. Today, the strategic importance of straits continues in global trade, with the Strait of Hormuz being a modern example, as it's a vital passage for oil transport. The values of connectivity and economic interdependence seen in ancient straits are similar to how countries today rely on secure and open sea routes for prosperity and cooperation.