Which individual is known for his work in geography and identifying the 98th Meridian?

John Wesley Powell is recognized for his significant contributions to geography, particularly for his exploration and documentation of the American West. One of his notable accomplishments was the identification of the 98th Meridian as a distinct geographic boundary. This meridian serves as a dividing line representing varying agricultural practices and climate conditions, particularly between the eastern and western United States.

Powell's work emphasized the importance of geographical features in influencing human activity and settlement patterns. He conducted thorough studies of the terrain, water resources, and ecosystems, which informed his views on land use and conservation. His insights laid the groundwork for future geographic exploration and land management policies.

In contrast, Levi Strauss was a cultural anthropologist known for his work in structuralism and not for geographic contributions. Franklin D. Roosevelt, as a U.S. president, focused primarily on economic and political issues during the Great Depression and World War II, rather than geographical exploration. Andrew Carnegie, a prominent industrialist, was influential in the steel industry and philanthropy but had no notable contributions in the field of geography. Thus, the choice of John Wesley Powell is grounded in his recognized achievements in identifying and understanding geographic boundaries.