United States

* Old Earth Flag
* New Earth Flag

- **The US’s national and de facto national mottos**

The United States is a Northern American country on Earth.

## Geography

The United States of America is a vast country located in North America, spanning a diverse range of physical geography and landscapes. It encompasses a wide variety of landforms, including mountains, plains, plateaus, deserts, rivers, and coastal areas.

Starting from the east coast, the Appalachian Mountains run along the eastern edge of the country, stretching from northern Alabama to Maine. These mountains are relatively old and eroded, characterized by rolling hills, densely forested areas, and numerous rivers and streams. The Appalachian Trail, a famous long-distance hiking trail, traverses this region.

Moving westward, the Mississippi River, one of the most significant rivers in North America, bisects the country, flowing south from northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. The Mississippi River Basin is known for its extensive floodplains and fertile agricultural lands. To the west of the Mississippi River lies the Great Plains, a vast expanse of flat or gently rolling terrain that extends from Canada down to Mexico. This region is known for its agricultural productivity, with vast fields of wheat, corn, and other crops.

The Rocky Mountains, part of the larger mountain range known as the Western Cordillera, dominate the western portion of the United States. Running from northern New Mexico up to the Canadian border, the Rockies are a rugged and majestic range, featuring towering peaks, deep canyons, and pristine alpine lakes. Some notable peaks include Mount Elbert in Colorado, the highest point in the Rocky Mountains, and the iconic Grand Teton in Wyoming.

West of the Rockies, the Great Basin occupies a vast area encompassing parts of Nevada, Utah, Idaho, Oregon, and California. This region is characterized by arid deserts, salt flats, and numerous small mountain ranges. The Death Valley, located in the Great Basin, is the lowest point in North America, reaching depths of 282 feet (86 meters) below sea level.

Along the western coastline, the United States has the Pacific Coast, stretching from the northernmost point of Alaska down to the Mexican border. The coastal areas of California, Oregon, and Washington are marked by rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and scenic coastal mountains. The Sierra Nevada range in California, known for its majestic peaks and Yosemite National Park, is a prominent feature of the western landscape.

In Alaska, the largest state in the country, a vast wilderness unfolds with stunning landscapes, including towering mountain ranges, massive glaciers, and fjords. Denali (formerly known as Mount McKinley) is the highest peak in North America, located in the Alaska Range.

Lastly, Hawaii, a group of volcanic islands in the Pacific Ocean, offers a unique geography with its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic peaks. The active volcanoes, such as Kilauea and Mauna Loa, have shaped the landscape of the islands over millions of years.

## Society & Culture

The society and culture of the United States are characterized by a complex blend of diverse influences, reflecting its history as a nation of immigrants and its commitment to individual freedom and democratic values. It is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and ideas, with a dynamic and ever-evolving social fabric.

One of the defining features of American society is its commitment to democratic principles and the idea of individual liberty. The U.S. Constitution guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms, such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press. These values have shaped the American identity and fostered a culture of individualism, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

The United States is also known for its cultural diversity. People from all around the world have come to the U.S., bringing their languages, religions, traditions, and customs. As a result, American society is a rich tapestry of various ethnicities, including African Americans, Hispanic and Latino Americans, Asian Americans, Native Americans, and many others. This diversity has contributed to a vibrant multicultural society, where different cultural practices and celebrations are embraced and celebrated.

Religion plays a significant role in American society, with a wide range of religious beliefs and practices represented. Christianity is the predominant religion, with various denominations, including Protestantism, Catholicism, and Evangelicalism. However, the United States is also home to sizable communities of Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, Hindus, and followers of other faiths. Religious freedom is a cherished value, and the separation of church and state is an important principle.

American society values education and places a strong emphasis on academic achievement. The United States has a vast network of educational institutions, from primary schools to world-renowned universities. Higher education is highly valued, and many American universities are at the forefront of research and innovation across a range of disciplines.

Sports play a significant role in American culture, with a particular emphasis on American football, baseball, basketball, and ice hockey. These sports have become an integral part of American identity and are widely followed and celebrated. Other popular recreational activities include soccer, golf, tennis, and various outdoor pursuits such as hiking, camping, and fishing.

The entertainment industry, centered in Hollywood, has a global influence, producing a vast array of movies, television shows, and music that resonate with audiences around the world. American popular culture, including music genres like jazz, rock 'n' roll, hip-hop, and country, has made a profound impact on global cultural trends.

Family plays an important role in American society, and there is a strong emphasis on individualism and personal achievement. However, community and volunteerism are also valued, with many Americans actively engaging in philanthropy and community service.