As a result of conflict over who would rule North Africa in the 1800s, European colonial powers drew
geometric boundaries.
governance contracts.
territorial lines based on natural features.
borders in hieroglyphics.

Asmall closed hole formed in an outwash plain or moraine. forms when a  glacier retreats then remains stationary. 

It is useful for historians to write narratives so that history can be passed on from their point of view.  think about a story being told in third person, then think about it again being told in first person, by someone who actually experienced the event.