Geopolitical Theories | Heartland & Rimland Explained

Heartland Theory (Halford Mackinder, 1904)

Core Idea: Control of central Eurasia (the “Heartland”) leads to control of the world.

Focus: Land power.

Key Quote: “Who rules the Heartland commands the World Island.”

Rimland Theory (Nicholas Spykman, 1940s)

Core Idea: Control of Eurasia’s coastal areas (the “Rimland”) is key to global power.

Focus: Sea power and access to population centers.

Key Quote: “Who controls the Rimland rules Eurasia.”

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In Short:
Heartland = control the land core;
Rimland = control the coastal edges.