Why do some globes have a metal ring or semi-ring around them?

Most globes have a metal ring either full circle or half (semi) circle. These are called MERIDIANS and they are generally numbered in degrees from 0º at the equator to 90º at either Pole.

Originally, meridians were used to help locate positions on the globe, but since globes have the longitude and latitude lines on the maps, the numbers on the meridian have become less important, but the ring itself still serves to hold the globe ball in position.

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