The United States of America (USA), commonly known as the United States (U.S.) or America, is a federal republic primarily located in North America. It consists of 50 states, a federal capital district (Washington, D.C.), five major self-governing territories, and various minor islands. The 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C., are situated between Canada to the north and Mexico to the south. The state of Alaska is located in the northwestern part of North America, bordered by Canada to the east and Russia to the west across the Bering Strait, while Hawaii is an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. The United States is the world's third-largest country by land area and population, with over 340 million people. It also has the second-largest exclusive economic zone globally. The nation's most populous states are California, Texas, and Florida, and its largest metropolitan areas are New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
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The first inhabitants of North America were Paleo-Indians who migrated from Siberia via the Bering Land Bridge over 12,000 years ago. European colonization began in the 16th century, with the Spanish establishing the first permanent settlement in present-day Florida in 1513. British colonization followed, beginning with the founding of Jamestown, Virginia, in 1607 as part of the Thirteen Colonies. The expansion of agriculture in the colonies led to the forced migration of enslaved Africans. Tensions between the colonies and the British Crown over taxation and representation culminated in the American Revolution. On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress declared independence, and the subsequent Revolutionary War (1775–1783) resulted in the establishment of the United States. The country expanded westward throughout the 19th century, often displacing Native American populations. The issue of slavery caused a division between the North and South, leading to the secession of the Confederate States of America and the American Civil War (1861–1865). The Union's victory preserved the nation and led to the abolition of slavery. By the early 20th century, the U.S. had emerged as a global power, a status reinforced by its role in World War I. The attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 prompted the U.S. to enter World War II. After the war, the U.S. and the Soviet Union emerged as superpowers, engaging in the Cold War, a period of geopolitical tension and ideological rivalry. The Cold War ended with the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, leaving the U.S. as the world's dominant superpower.
The U.S. government operates as a presidential constitutional republic with a federal system, dividing powers among three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. The bicameral Congress consists of the House of Representatives, apportioned by population, and the Senate, with equal representation for each state. Federalism grants significant autonomy to the states, while the nation's political traditions are rooted in Enlightenment ideals. The U.S. is one of the world's most developed countries, with the largest nominal GDP since the late 19th century, accounting for over 15% of the global economy in 2023. It ranks highly in economic competitiveness, innovation, human rights, and higher education. However, it faces challenges related to wealth and income inequality. The U.S. wields substantial global influence through its hard power and cultural reach. It is a founding member of several international organizations, including the United Nations, NATO, the World Bank, and the Organization of American States, and holds a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.
Etymology
The name "United States of America" was first documented in a letter dated January 2, 1776, written by Stephen Moylan, an aide to General George Washington in the Continental Army. In the letter, Moylan expressed his desire to go "with full and ample powers from the United States of America to Spain" to seek support for the Revolutionary War effort. The first known public use of the term appeared in an anonymous essay published in 
The terms "United States" and the initialism "U.S." are widely used as short forms of the country's name, both as nouns and adjectives. The initialism "USA" is also commonly used as a noun. Within the U.S. federal government, "United States" and "U.S." are the standard terms, with specific rules governing their usage. Colloquially, "The States" is a well-established shorthand for the country, often used by those abroad, while "stateside" serves as the corresponding adjective or adverb.
The term "America" derives from the feminine form of Americus Vesputius, the Latinized name of Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci (1454–1512). It was first used as a place name in 1507 by German cartographers Martin Waldseemüller and Matthias Ringmann. Vespucci was the first to propose that the lands discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492 were part of a previously unknown continent, distinct from Asia. In English, "America" is rarely used to refer to topics unrelated to the United States, even though "the Americas" is commonly used to describe the combined regions of North and South America.
Indigenous Peoples
The first inhabitants of North America migrated from Siberia over 12,000 years ago, either via the Bering Land Bridge or along the now-submerged Ice Age coastline. The Clovis culture, emerging around 11,000 BC, is considered the first widespread culture in the Americas. Over millennia, indigenous societies grew increasingly complex, with some, like the Mississippian culture, developing advanced agriculture, architecture, and social structures. By the post-archaic period, the Mississippian cultures dominated the midwestern, eastern, and southern regions, while the Algonquian peoples inhabited the Great Lakes and Eastern Seaboard. In the southwest, the Hohokam and Ancestral Puebloans thrived. Estimates of the pre-Columbian Native American population in what is now the United States range from 500,000 to nearly 10 million.
European Exploration, Colonization, and Conflict (1513–1765)
Christopher Columbus's Caribbean explorations in 1492 marked the beginning of European colonization in the Americas. Spain established its first colony in the continental United States, Spanish Florida, in 1513. Despite early setbacks, Spain founded its first permanent settlement, Saint Augustine, in 1565. France attempted colonization in French Florida in 1562, but its settlements were either abandoned or destroyed by Spanish forces. Permanent French settlements were later established along the Great Lakes, the Mississippi River, and the Gulf of Mexico, including New Orleans in 1718. The Dutch and Swedes also established colonies, such as New Netherland (1626) and New Sweden (1638). British colonization began with the founding of the Virginia Colony in 1607 and the Plymouth Colony in 1620. The Mayflower Compact and the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut laid the groundwork for representative self-governance in the colonies. European settlers often clashed with Native Americans, though trade and alliances also occurred. Colonial authorities frequently imposed European lifestyles and Christianity on indigenous populations. The Atlantic slave trade brought enslaved Africans to the colonies, particularly along the eastern seaboard.
The Thirteen Colonies, which would later form the United States, were administered by Great Britain but developed local governments with elections open to most white male property owners. The colonial population grew rapidly, surpassing Native American populations by the 1770s. Distance from Britain allowed for the development of self-governance, and the First Great Awakening fostered a spirit of religious liberty.
American Revolution and the Early Republic (1765–1800)
Following Britain's victory in the French and Indian War, increased British control over the colonies sparked resistance. Colonial grievances included taxation without representation and the denial of rights as Englishmen. The First Continental Congress met in 1774 and organized a boycott of British goods. The Battles of Lexington and Concord in 1775 marked the start of the American Revolutionary War. The Second Continental Congress appointed George Washington as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army and tasked Thomas Jefferson with drafting the Declaration of Independence, which was adopted on July 4, 1776. The Revolution was driven by ideals of liberty, individual rights, popular sovereignty, republicanism, and opposition to political corruption. Influenced by Greco-Roman, Renaissance, and Enlightenment thought, the Founding Fathers shaped the new nation's political philosophy.
The Articles of Confederation, ratified in 1781, established a decentralized government that lasted until 1789. The Treaty of Paris (1783) recognized American independence and granted the U.S. territory extending to the Mississippi River. The Northwest Ordinance (1787) set the precedent for admitting new states to the Union. The U.S. Constitution, drafted in 1787 and enacted in 1789, created a federal republic with three branches of government to ensure checks and balances. George Washington became the first president under the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights was adopted in 1791 to address concerns about federal power. Washington's leadership, including his resignation as commander-in-chief and refusal to seek a third presidential term, established enduring precedents for civilian authority and the peaceful transfer of power.
The Louisiana Purchase of 1803 nearly doubled the size of the United States, extending its territory westward. Tensions with Britain persisted, leading to the War of 1812, which ended in a stalemate. In 1819, Spain ceded Florida and its Gulf Coast territories to the U.S. The concept of Manifest Destiny fueled westward expansion, as settlers moved into Native American lands. The Missouri Compromise of 1820 attempted to balance the expansion of slavery by admitting Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state, while prohibiting slavery north of the 36°30′ parallel in the Louisiana Purchase territory.
As settlers encroached on Native American lands, the federal government implemented policies of Indian removal and assimilation. The Indian Removal Act of 1830 led to the forced displacement of approximately 60,000 Native Americans in what became known as the Trail of Tears, resulting in thousands of deaths. This period also saw the annexation of the Republic of Texas in 1845 and the Oregon Treaty of 1846, which secured U.S. control of the Pacific Northwest. The Mexican–American War (1846–1848) ended with the Mexican Cession, granting the U.S. territories that would become California, Nevada, Utah, and parts of Colorado and the Southwest. The California Gold Rush (1848–1849) spurred mass migration and further conflicts with Native populations, including the California genocide.
Slavery became a central issue as the nation expanded. The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, the Kansas–Nebraska Act of 1854, and the Dred Scott decision of 1857 exacerbated tensions between the North and South. These conflicts culminated in the American Civil War (1861–1865), when eleven Southern states seceded to form the Confederate States of America. The war began with the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter in April 1861. The Emancipation Proclamation of 1863 declared freedom for slaves in Confederate states, and many freed slaves joined the Union army. Key Union victories at Vicksburg and Gettysburg in 1863 turned the tide of the war, leading to the Confederate surrender at Appomattox Court House in 1865. The Reconstruction era followed, marked by efforts to rebuild the South and protect the rights of African Americans through constitutional amendments.
Post–Civil War Era (1865–1917)
From 1865 to 1917, the U.S. experienced an unprecedented wave of immigration, with over 24 million people arriving, primarily from Europe. Many settled in cities like New York, while others moved to the Midwest. The Great Migration saw millions of African Americans leave the rural South for urban areas in the North. In 1867, the U.S. purchased Alaska from Russia.
The Compromise of 1877 ended Reconstruction, allowing white supremacists to regain control of Southern politics. African Americans faced systemic racism, including Jim Crow laws, sundown towns, and segregation. The Plessy v. Ferguson Supreme Court decision (1896) upheld racial segregation under the "separate but equal" doctrine.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw rapid industrialization, driven by technological advancements and cheap immigrant labor. Industrialists like John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie amassed wealth through monopolies and trusts, while economic inequality and social unrest grew. The Progressive Era brought reforms to address these issues.
The U.S. expanded its overseas territories during this period. Hawaii was annexed in 1898, and the Spanish–American War resulted in the acquisition of Puerto Rico, the Philippines, and Guam. American Samoa was acquired in 1900, and the U.S. Virgin Islands were purchased from Denmark in 1917.
Rise as a Superpower (1917–1945)
The U.S. entered World War I in 1917, helping the Allies defeat the Central Powers. The 1920s saw technological advancements like radio and early television, but the Great Depression began with the Wall Street Crash of 1929. President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs aimed to revive the economy and prevent future depressions.
Initially neutral in World War II, the U.S. entered the conflict after the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. The U.S. developed the first nuclear weapons and used them on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945, ending the war. The U.S. emerged as a global superpower, playing a key role in shaping the post-war world.
The Cold War saw geopolitical rivalry between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. The U.S. pursued a policy of containment to limit Soviet influence and achieved milestones like the first crewed Moon landing in 1969. Domestically, the civil rights movement gained momentum, led by figures like Martin Luther Kin
g Jr. The Great Society programs under President Lyndon B. Johnson addressed poverty and racial inequality. The counterculture movement of the 1960s and 1970s brought social changes, including opposition to the Vietnam War and shifts in gender roles.
The Cold War ended with the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, leaving the U.S. as the world's sole superpower.
Contemporary Era (1991–Present)
The 1990s were marked by economic growth, technological innovation, and declining crime rates. The Human Genome Project and the rise of the World Wide Web were significant milestones. The U.S. led a coalition in the Gulf War (1991) to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait.
The September 11 attacks in 2001 led to the War on Terror, including military interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq. The Great Recession of 2007–2008 was the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. Political polarization intensified in the 2010s, culminating in the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack, when a mob attempted to overturn the 2020 presidential election results. The U.S. withdrew from Afghanistan in 2021, ending its longest war.
Geography
The United States is the third-largest country in the world by total area, following Russia and Canada. The 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C., cover approximately 3.1 million square miles (8.08 million square kilometers). The country's geography is diverse, ranging from the Atlantic coastal plain to the Appalachian Mountains, the Great Plains, the Rocky Mountains, and the Pacific Coast. The Mississippi River System, the fourth-longest river system in the world, runs north–south through the heart of the country. The Grand Canyon, carved by the Colorado River in Arizona, is one of the most iconic natural landmarks.
The Rocky Mountains, stretching from the northern to the southern U.S., include some of the highest peaks in the country, such as Denali in Alaska, which at 20,310 feet (6,190.5 meters) is the highest point in North America. The Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountain ranges run along the Pacific Coast, while the Great Basin and deserts like the Mojave and Sonoran dominate the southwestern region. The Yellowstone Caldera, a supervolcano in the Rocky Mountains, is the largest volcanic feature on the continent.
The U.S. is also home to a variety of climates, from humid continental in the north to humid subtropical in the south, semi-arid in the Great Plains, arid in the Southwest, Mediterranean in California, and tropical in Hawaii and parts of Florida. The country experiences a wide range of extreme weather events, including hurricanes, tornadoes, and heat waves, with increasing frequency in the 21st century.
The United States is one of the world's 17 megadiverse countries, boasting a wide array of endemic species. It is home to approximately 17,000 species of vascular plants, 428 mammal species, 784 bird species, 311 reptiles, 295 amphibians, and around 91,000 insect species. The bald eagle, declared the national bird in 1782, is a symbol of the country's rich biodiversity.
The U.S. has 63 national parks and hundreds of federally managed forests, wilderness areas, and protected lands, managed by agencies like the National Park Service. About 28% of the country's land is publicly owned, primarily in the western states, with most of it protected for conservation. However, environmental challenges such as deforestation, pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change remain pressing issues. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the primary federal body tasked with addressing these concerns. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 plays a critical role in protecting threatened species and their habitats.
In 2024, the U.S. ranked 35th out of 180 countries in the Environmental Performance Index, reflecting ongoing efforts and challenges in environmental conservation.
The United States is a federal republic composed of 50 states, a federal capital district (Washington, D.C.), and several territories and uninhabited island possessions. It is the world's oldest surviving federation and operates under a presidential system of government, which has influenced many other nations. The U.S. is a liberal representative democracy where majority rule is balanced by minority rights protected by law. The U.S. Constitution serves as the country's supreme legal document, establishing the framework for its government and political system.
National Government
The federal government is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and is divided into three branches, each with distinct powers and responsibilities, ensuring a system of checks and balances:
Legislative Branch:
The U.S. Congress is a bicameral legislature consisting of the Senate (100 members, 2 per state) and the House of Representatives (435 members, apportioned by population). Congress is responsible for making federal laws, declaring war, approving treaties, and overseeing the executive branch through its investigative and subpoena powers.
Executive Branch:
The President serves as the head of state, commander-in-chief of the military, and chief executive. The president can veto legislation, appoint Cabinet members and federal judges (with Senate approval), and issue executive orders. The president and vice president are elected together via the Electoral College and serve a maximum of two four-year terms.
Judicial Branch:
The federal judiciary includes the Supreme Court, courts of appeals, and district courts. The Supreme Court, composed of nine justices, interprets laws and can overturn unconstitutional legislation. Federal judges are appointed for life by the president, subject to Senate approval.
The U.S. operates under a de facto two-party system, dominated by the Democratic Party (generally liberal) and the Republican Party (generally conservative). Although the Constitution does not mention political parties, they emerged in the 18th century and have shaped the nation's political landscape ever since.
The U.S. federal system divides power between the national government and state governments. States are further subdivided into counties and municipalities. The District of Columbia is a federal district housing the nation's capital. Additionally, 326 Indian reservations are governed by federally recognized tribes.
The United States maintains a robust network of foreign relations and has the second-largest diplomatic corps globally. It is a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and hosts the UN headquarters in New York City. The U.S. is a member of key international organizations, including the G7, G20, and OECD.
The U.S. has a "Special Relationship" with the United Kingdom and strong ties with Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Israel, and several European Union countries. It is also a key player in NATO and the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (with Australia, India, and Japan). The U.S. provides significant military support to Taiwan and has strengthened its strategic partnership with India, while relations with China have deteriorated in recent years. Since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. has been a major ally and supplier of military aid to Ukraine.
The United States Armed Forces is the world's most powerful military, with a $916 billion budget in 2023, accounting for 37% of global military spending. The military consists of six service branches: the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. The Pentagon, located in Arlington, Virginia, serves as the headquarters of the Department of Defense.
The U.S. operates approximately 800 military bases abroad and maintains a significant presence in over 25 foreign countries. It also possesses 42% of the world's nuclear weapons, the second-largest stockpile after Russia.
The U.S. has a decentralized law enforcement system, with about 18,000 police agencies operating at local, state, and federal levels. Key federal agencies include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Marshals Service, which handle national security, civil rights enforcement, and federal court rulings.
The criminal justice system is highly fragmented, with federal prisons, state prisons, local jails, and juvenile correctional facilities operating independently. As of 2023, the U.S. has the sixth-highest incarceration rate globally, with nearly 2 million people incarcerated across various facilities. The country also faces high rates of gun violence, with homicide rates significantly higher than in other high-income nations.
The U.S. government and political system are defined by a balance of power, a strong emphasis on individual rights, and a complex network of domestic and international relationships.
The United States has been the world's largest economy in nominal terms since around 1890. In 2023, its nominal GDP exceeded
27trillion,accountingforover25
27trillion,accountingforover2534.4 trillion.
The U.S. is home to 136 of the world's 500 largest companies by revenue (as of 2023), the highest number of any country. The U.S. dollar is the most widely used currency in international transactions and serves as the world's primary reserve currency, supported by the country's economic dominance, military strength, and the petrodollar system. The U.S. has free trade agreements with several nations, including the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), and ranks second in the Global Competitiveness Report (2019).
Despite being a post-industrial economy with a strong focus on services, the U.S. remains a major industrial power, ranking as the second-largest manufacturing country after China. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq, both located in New York City, are the world's largest stock exchanges by market capitalization and trade volume. The U.S. is a global leader in technological innovation, particularly in fields like artificial intelligence, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and aerospace.
The U.S. economy is driven by abundant natural resources, a well-developed infrastructure, and high productivity. Its largest trading partners include the European Union, Mexico, Canada, China, Japan, and South Korea. The U.S. is the world's largest importer and second-largest exporter, as well as the largest exporter of services.
Americans enjoy the highest average household and employee income among OECD countries, but income inequality remains a significant issue. The top 10% of earners hold 72% of the country's wealth, while the bottom 50% own just 2%. The U.S. has the highest number of billionaires and millionaires globally, with 735 billionaires and nearly 22 million millionaires as of 2023. However, challenges such as homelessness, food insecurity, and poverty persist, with 37.9 million people (11.5% of the population) living in poverty in 2022.
The U.S. has a smaller welfare state compared to other high-income countries and lacks federal guarantees for paid vacation or family leave. Its labor market is characterized by a high percentage of low-income workers, partly due to weak collective bargaining and limited government support for at-risk workers.
The U.S. has been a global leader in technological innovation since the late 19th century and in scientific research since the mid-20th century. It pioneered mass production techniques, such as interchangeable parts and the assembly line, and remains at the forefront of artificial intelligence development. In 2022, the U.S. ranked second in scientific paper publications (after China) and second in patent applications. It also ranked third in the Global Innovation Index (2023-2024), behind Switzerland and Sweden.
The U.S. space program, led by NASA, has achieved significant milestones, including the Apollo 11 Moon landing in 1969. NASA's ongoing projects include the International Space Station (ISS), the James Webb Space Telescope, and the Mars Exploration Program. The U.S. private sector dominates the global commercial spaceflight industry, with companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Boeing playing key roles.
In terms of energy, the U.S. relies heavily on fossil fuels, which account for 84% of its energy consumption (2023). Petroleum and natural gas are the largest sources, followed by renewables, coal, and nuclear power. Despite having less than 4% of the world's population, the U.S. consumes 16% of global energy and is the second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases.
Transportation
The U.S. has one of the most extensive transportation networks in the world. Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the busiest airport globally, handling over 75 million passengers in 2021. The country's Interstate Highway System is a critical component of its infrastructure, facilitating the movement of goods and people across states.
The U.S. rail network, the longest in the world, primarily handles freight. Amtrak provides limited intercity passenger rail service, with more frequent operations in regions like the Northeast Corridor and parts of California. The U.S. is also a leader in automotive manufacturing, home to companies like Tesla and General Motors. With 910 vehicles per 1,000 people, the U.S. has the highest vehicle ownership rate globally.
Public transportation varies by region, with major cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco operating extensive systems that include subways and light rail. However, many areas remain heavily reliant on personal vehicles due to lower population density and limited public transit options.
Demographics
Population
The United States is the third-most populous country in the world, with an estimated population of 340.1 million as of 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This represents a 2.6% increase since the 2020 census, which recorded 331.4 million residents. The U.S. population grows by approximately 5,400 people per day, with a net gain of one person every 16 seconds. The country's population is highly diverse, with 37 ancestry groups having more than one million members each.
The largest racial and ethnic group in the U.S. is White Americans (57.8%), followed by Hispanic and Latino Americans (18.7%), African Americans (12.1%), and Asian Americans (5.9%). Native Americans make up about 1% of the population, with 574 federally recognized tribes. The median age of the U.S. population in 2022 was 38.9 years.
The 10 most populous states as of 2024 are:
California (39.4 million)
Texas (31.3 million)
Florida (23.4 million)
New York (19.9 million)
Pennsylvania (13.1 million)
Illinois (12.7 million)
Ohio (11.9 million)
Georgia (11.2 million)
North Carolina (11.0 million)
Michigan (10.1 million)
In 2023, the total fertility rate in the U.S. was 1.6 children per woman, and 23% of children lived in single-parent households, the highest rate in the world.
English is the most widely spoken language in the United States, used by the vast majority of the population. While there is no official language at the federal level, English is standardized in laws such as naturalization requirements, and most states have declared it their official language. Some states and territories recognize additional languages, such as Hawaiian in Hawaii, Native languages in Alaska, and Spanish in Puerto Rico. In total, 169 Native American languages are spoken in the U.S.
According to the 2020 American Community Survey, 245.4 million people spoke only English at home, while 41.2 million spoke Spanish. Other widely spoken languages include Chinese (3.4 million), Tagalog (1.7 million), Vietnamese (1.5 million), Arabic (1.4 million), French (1.2 million), Korean (1.1 million), and Russian (1.0 million).
The United States has the largest immigrant population in the world, with 87.7 million immigrants and U.S.-born children of immigrants in 2022, accounting for 27% of the total population. In 2017, 45% of immigrants were naturalized citizens, 27% were lawful permanent residents, 6% were temporary residents, and 23% were unauthorized immigrants. The top countries of origin for immigrants are Mexico (24%), India (6%), China (5%), the Philippines (4.5%), and El Salvador (3%).
In fiscal year 2022, over one million immigrants were granted legal residence, primarily through family reunification. The U.S. also resettled 100,034 refugees in fiscal year 2024, reaffirming its position as the top global resettlement destination.
The United States is one of the most religiously diverse countries in the world, with a wide range of faiths practiced. The First Amendment guarantees freedom of religion and prohibits the establishment of a state religion. According to a 2023 Gallup poll, the religious affiliation of Americans is as follows:
Protestantism (33%)
Catholicism (22%)
Non-specific Christian (11%)
Judaism (2%)
Mormonism (1%)
Other religions (6%)
Unaffiliated (22%)
Unanswered (3%)
The U.S. has the largest Christian population in the world, with significant regional variations in religious practice. For example, evangelical Protestantism is prominent in the Bible Belt (Southern U.S.), while New England and the Western U.S. tend to be more secular. Mormonism, a Restorationist movement, is the predominant religion in Utah.
About 82% of Americans live in urban areas, including suburbs, with half residing in cities with populations over 50,000. In 2022, 333 municipalities had populations over 100,000, and nine cities had more than one million residents. The four largest cities—New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston—each have populations exceeding two million. Many metropolitan areas, particularly in the South and West, are experiencing rapid growth.
The 10 largest metropolitan areas in the U.S. as of 2023 are:
New York (19.5 million)
Los Angeles (12.8 million)
Chicago (9.3 million)
Dallas–Fort Worth (8.1 million)
Houston (7.5 million)
Atlanta (6.3 million)
Washington, D.C. (6.3 million)
Philadelphia (6.2 million)
Miami (6.2 million)
Phoenix (5.1 million)
Health
The average life expectancy in the U.S. in 2023 was 78.4 years (75.8 years for men and 81.1 years for women), an increase from 77.5 years in 2022. This improvement was largely
Texas Medical Center in Houston is the largest medical complex in the world
due to decreases in mortality from COVID-19, heart disease, unintentional injuries, cancer, and diabetes. However, the U.S. lags behind other wealthy countries in life expectancy and healthcare outcomes, despite spending more on healthcare than any other nation.
Approximately one-third of U.S. adults are obese, and another third are overweight. The U.S. also has one of the highest suicide rates among high-income countries. The healthcare system, which is the most expensive in the world, does not provide universal coverage, leaving a significant portion of the population uninsured. Government programs like Medicaid (for low-income individuals) and Medicare (for those aged 65 and older) provide coverage to eligible Americans. The Affordable Care Act (2010) expanded access to healthcare, but abortion rights remain a contentious issue, with restrictions or bans in 17 states.
The Texas Medical Center in Houston is the largest medical complex in the world, employing 120,000 people and treating 10 million patients annually.
Education
Education in the United States is decentralized, with primary and secondary education (K-12) managed by state, territorial, and sometimes municipal governments, regulated by the U.S. Department of Education. Children are generally required to attend school from ages five or six (kindergarten or first grade) until they are 18, though some states allow students to leave at 16 or 17. The U.S. spends more per student on education than any other country, averaging $18,614 per year for public elementary and secondary school students in 2020–2021. Among Americans aged 25 and older, 92.2% have graduated from high school, 62.7% have attended some college, 37.7% hold a bachelor's degree, and 14.2% have earned a graduate degree. The U.S. literacy rate is near-universal, and the country has produced the most Nobel Prize winners, with 411 laureates.
Higher education in the U.S. enjoys a global reputation, with many of the world's top universities located there, including 19 of the top 25. Public institutions, such as the University of Virginia, enroll about 77% of American college students, while private universities and colleges account for the remaining 20%. Community colleges offer more accessible and affordable options, typically covering the first two years of college study. The U.S. spends more per student on higher education than the OECD average, and student loan debt has risen significantly, exceeding $1.7 trillion in 2022.
American culture is shaped by a unifying belief in the "American Creed," which emphasizes liberty, equality, democracy, and limited government. The U.S. is known for its values of individualism, personal autonomy, a strong work ethic, competitiveness, and a tradition of voluntary altruism. Americans donate a higher percentage of GDP to charity than any other country, reflecting a culture of generosity. The U.S. is a melting pot of ethnic groups, traditions, and values, with significant cultural and economic influence worldwide.
The American Dream, the idea that anyone can achieve success through hard work, has long attracted immigrants. However, debates persist about the reality of social mobility in the U.S. While mainstream culture often portrays the U.S. as a classless society, scholars note significant social class differences that affect language, values, and opportunities. Americans value socioeconomic achievement, but there is also a cultural appreciation for being ordinary or average.
The National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities, established in 1965, promotes and preserves American cultural heritage through its sub-agencies: the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities.
The U.S. is known for its strong protections of free speech under the First Amendment, which safeguards expressions like flag desecration, hate speech, and blasphemy. Americans are highly supportive of free expression, freedom of the press, and uncensored internet access. The U.S. is also socially progressive, with permissive attitudes toward human sexuality and advanced LGBT rights by global standards.
Literature
Mass Media
The U.S. media landscape is vast and largely uncensored, protected by the First Amendment. Major broadcast networks include NBC, CBS, ABC, and Fox, while cable television offers hundreds of niche channels. Public radio, led by NPR, provides news and cultural programming. The U.S. is home to globally influential newspapers like The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post. The video game industry is the largest in the world by revenue, with California alone hosting 444 publishers and developers.
Theater
The U.S. theater scene is centered in New York City's Theater District, home to Broadway, off-Broadway, and off-off-Broadway productions. Many film and television stars began their careers in New York theater. The Tony Awards recognize excellence in Broadway theater, with categories for productions, performances, and regional theater.
Visual Arts
American visual arts have evolved from colonial folk art to modernist and postmodernist movements. The Hudson River School and the 1913 Armory Show were pivotal in shaping American art. Iconic artists like Georgia O'Keeffe, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol have left lasting legacies. The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City is the largest art museum in the U.S. and the fourth-largest in the world.
Music
American music encompasses a wide range of genres, from folk and blues to jazz, rock, and hip-hop. Influential musicians like Louis Armstrong, Bob Dylan, and Beyoncé have shaped global music trends. The U.S. has the world's largest music market, with major record companies based in the country.
Fashion
American fashion is eclectic and informal, with iconic items like sneakers, jeans, and baseball caps. New York City is a global fashion capital, hosting New York Fashion Week and the annual Met Gala. The U.S. is the world's largest apparel market, with many designer labels headquartered in Manhattan.
Cinema
The U.S. film industry, centered in Hollywood, has a global influence. Major studios produce some of the world's most commercially successful films. The Academy Awards (Oscars) and Golden Globe Awards are prestigious events in the film industry. The U.S. has also embraced streaming platforms, which have transformed how audiences consume media.
Cuisine
American cuisine is a blend of Native American, European, African, and immigrant influences. Iconic dishes include apple pie, hamburgers, and Thanksgiving turkey. The U.S. restaurant industry is a major economic driver, employing over 15 million people. The country is also a significant wine producer, with California leading the industry.
Sports
The most popular spectator sports in the U.S. are American football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and ice hockey. American football, particularly the NFL, dominates the sports landscape, with the Super Bowl being one of the most-watched events globally. The U.S. has hosted eight Olympic Games and will host the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. American athletes have won more Olympic medals than any other country.
In international soccer, the U.S. men's and women's national teams have achieved significant success, with the women's team winning multiple World Cups and Olympic titles. The U.S. will co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Canada and Mexico.
References
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American Civil War Museum. (2023, August 15). Louisiana Purchase Educator Resource - American Civil War Museum. https://acwm.org/louisiana-purchase-edu/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAqfe8BhBwEiwAsne6gRi41KbgnbUSW25ueZFuEZJl09W2jxQbCWhDZ7H9rlWtzzYtbN1auxoCxCUQAvD_BwE
American Football. (n.d.). https://fittoplay.org/sports/american-football/
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Cold War. (n.d.). Drishti IAS. https://www.drishtiias.com/to-the-points/paper1/cold-war
Milestones in the history of U.S. Foreign Relations - Office of the Historian. (n.d.). https://history.state.gov/milestones/1866-1898/spanish-american-war
Missouri Compromise (1820). (2022, May 10). National Archives. https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/missouri-compromise#:~:text=This%20legislation%20admitted%20Missouri%20as,remainder%20of%20the%20Louisiana%20Territory.
Mohmuseum. (2022, June 24). The Battle of Gettysburg and the Medal of Honor. National Medal of Honor Museum. https://mohmuseum.org/gettysburg/?ad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAqfe8BhBwEiwAsne6geYmnExAv0hMtAqafYCayL479BJUhRTt15DohHJ-VYZiXqI5HUQohRoC5dkQAvD_BwE
Nefzger, M. (2024, August 28). Geschichte, Bevölkerung, Geografie: Fakten über die USA. Berliner Morgenpost. https://www.morgenpost.de/politik/article403922846/usa-vereinigte-staaten-amerika-fakten-geographie-geschichte.html
On Black Tuesday, 29 October 1929, 16 million shares were sold on the Stock Market in Wall Street and the US economy collapsed completely (CCEA). - BBC Bitesize. (2024, July 2). BBC Bitesize. https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zmjmywx
Texas Medical Center. (2025, January 10). About us - Texas Medical Center. https://www.tmc.edu/about-tmc/
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TRADING ECONOMICS. (n.d.). United States GDP. https://tradingeconomics.com/united-states/gdp
What is NATO? (n.d.). What Is NATO? https://www.nato.int/nato-welcome/
Why the US economy is still thriving despite higher interest rates. (2024, May 21). LGT Private Banking. https://www.lgt.com/global-en/market-assessments/market-view/-why-the-us-economy-is-still-thriving-despite-higher-interest-rates-216322
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