_______ was the first formal book on geography. 

The correct answer is 'Kosmos'

Key Points

• Kosmos:
  • Kosmos is considered the first formal and comprehensive book on geography, written by the eminent German scholar Alexander von Humboldt.
  • The book aimed to unify diverse branches of scientific knowledge about the physical world and is often seen as laying the foundation of modern physical geography.
  • Published in multiple volumes starting in 1845, Kosmos introduced the idea of treating geography as a holistic science interconnected with astronomy, geology, meteorology, and biology.
  • It emphasized empirical observation and the interrelation of phenomena, setting the tone for later geographical studies.

Additional Information

• Geographica:
  • Written by the ancient Greek scholar Strabo around 7 BCE, it was a monumental descriptive work on the known world at that time.
  • While it contributed significantly to classical geographical knowledge, it was more descriptive and lacked the scientific and integrative approach found in Kosmos.
• Guide to Geography:
  • This is commonly attributed to Claudius Ptolemy, a Greco-Roman mathematician and geographer, in the 2nd century CE.
  • It introduced the concepts of cartography and coordinate systems but was focused more on mathematical geography rather than a holistic scientific framework.
• Periods Ges:
  • This is not recognized as a standard geographical work and does not hold significance in the formal history of geographical literature.
  • It appears to be either a misinterpretation or an incorrect option not related to mainstream geographical foundations.

Important Points

• Alexander von Humboldt is known as the Father of Modern Geography for his scientific approach and contribution through Kosmos.
• He emphasized the principle of unity in diversity in geographical phenomena and pioneered ecological and environmental studies.
• Kosmos influenced many scientists and explorers, including Charles Darwin, due to its interdisciplinary and systematic analysis of nature.