JROTC Leadership & Academic Bowl Practice Test 2026 – Complete Exam Prep

The Prime Meridian was established as the longitude line numbered 0 degrees at the International Meridian Conference held in Washington, D.C., in 1884. This line serves as the reference point for measuring longitude across the globe, with longitudes being expressed in degrees east or west of the Prime Meridian. It runs through Greenwich, England, and is crucial for navigation, timekeeping, and mapping.

Establishing the Prime Meridian at this conference was significant as it created a standardized reference point for the entire world, allowing for consistent communication and navigation practices internationally. Recognizing the Prime Meridian as the baseline for time zones and global positioning underscores its importance in geography and international relations.