Fact Check: "The South Caucasus consists of Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan."
What We Know
The claim that "The South Caucasus consists of Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan" is supported by multiple credible sources. The South Caucasus, also referred to as Transcaucasia, is a geographical region located at the intersection of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, straddling the southern Caucasus Mountains. It primarily encompasses the modern nations of Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan, which are often collectively referred to as the Caucasian States (Wikipedia, Harvard Alumni Travel). The total area of these three countries is approximately 186,100 square kilometers (71,850 square miles) (Wikipedia).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim is robust. The definition of the South Caucasus as including Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan is consistent across various reputable sources. For instance, the Wikipedia article clearly states that the South Caucasus roughly corresponds to these three countries. Additionally, the Harvard Alumni Travel overview describes the three countries as interlocking "like puzzle pieces" across the Caucasus range, further affirming their geographical and cultural connection.
Moreover, the Carnegie Endowment provides context about the distinct cultures and geopolitical significance of these countries, reinforcing their classification as part of the South Caucasus.
The sources used are credible, with Wikipedia being a widely referenced resource, and the Harvard Alumni Travel program being associated with a reputable academic institution. Both sources present information that aligns with geographical and historical consensus, making them reliable for this fact-check.
Conclusion
The claim that "The South Caucasus consists of Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan" is True. The geographical classification of these three nations as part of the South Caucasus is well-documented and supported by multiple authoritative sources.
