What type of map shows government boundaries, such as countries and states?

The correct answer is a political map, which is designed specifically to illustrate governmental boundaries such as countries, states, and municipalities. These maps typically use distinct colors or shades to delineate the borders of different political entities, making it easy to identify where one government jurisdiction ends and another begins. Political maps are essential for understanding the organization of land within a given area and are often used in educational contexts to help students learn about geography, governance, and international relations.

Topographical maps, on the other hand, focus on the physical features of the terrain, illustrating elevation and landforms rather than government divisions. Physical maps also emphasize natural features like mountains, rivers, and lakes, prioritizing the physical geography over political boundaries. Thematic maps are created to convey specific themes or data, such as demographic trends or climate patterns, but do not primarily focus on displaying governmental boundaries. Hence, a political map is the most appropriate choice for showing government jurisdictions.