United States
United States
The United States of America (USA) is a federal republic located primarily in North America. It consists of 50 states, a federal district (Washington, D.C.), five major unincorporated territories, and various possessions. It is one of the world's most influential countries in terms of politics, economics, military, science, culture, and innovation.
Geography
The United States spans a vast area from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and from Canada in the north to Mexico and the Gulf of Mexico in the south.
- Total area: ~9.8 million km² (3.8 million sq mi)
- Major landscapes: Appalachian Mountains, Rocky Mountains, Great Plains, Great Lakes, Mississippi River, Grand Canyon
- Climate: Ranges from arctic (Alaska) to tropical (Hawaii and Florida)
History
- Pre-Columbian era: Indigenous peoples lived for thousands of years.
- 1492: Christopher Columbus’ voyage marks beginning of European colonization.
- 1776: Declaration of Independence; 13 colonies declare independence from Britain.
- 1789: U.S. Constitution adopted; George Washington becomes first president.
- 19th century: Westward expansion, Civil War (1861–1865), abolition of slavery.
- 20th century: Emerged as a global power after World Wars; Civil Rights Movement.
- 21st century: Influential in global affairs, technology, economy, and culture.
Government
The United States is a **constitutional federal republic** with a system of **checks and balances** among three branches:
- Executive: President (head of state and government)
- Legislative: U.S. Congress (Senate and House of Representatives)
- Judicial: U.S. Supreme Court and federal judiciary
Economy
- One of the largest and most technologically advanced economies in the world.
- Based on capitalism and free-market principles.
- Major industries: technology, finance, healthcare, defense, agriculture, energy, and entertainment.
Demographics
- Population: Over 330 million (2020 census)
- Official language: None at the federal level; English is the de facto language.
- Largest cities: New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix
- Diversity: A multicultural nation with significant immigrant population.
Culture
The U.S. is a global center of cultural influence, known for its:
- **Hollywood** film industry
- **Music** genres: jazz, blues, rock, hip-hop, country
- **Literature, art, sports** (e.g. basketball, baseball, American football)
- **Education and research** (top-ranking universities like Harvard, MIT)
States and Territories
There are 50 states, including:
- California, Texas, Florida, New York, Illinois, etc.
And notable territories:
- Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands
Symbols
- National flag: Stars and Stripes
- National anthem: "The Star-Spangled Banner"
- National bird: Bald eagle
- National motto: "In God We Trust"