No one would’ve thought that the United States would get into where it is today, now helping fellow countries protect independence and diplomacy. At a glance, United States’ past is overshadowed by how it dramatically progressed after the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
But what makes the United States the powerful nation it is today?
The United States of America, also known as the US or the United States, is the third largest and third most populated country globally. As of 2020, there are about 329 million inhabitants in its 9.8 square kilometer area, working together to maintain its economic power.
Apart from its 50 states, the US has a federal district, Washington DC, its capital, and self-governing territories such as Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, US Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.
A Bit of History
The country’s history starts in 1492 when an Italian explorer, Christopher Columbus, discovered America. Onboard his ship, Columbus landed in the Bahamas and befriended the Guanahani, the natives of the Bahamas. This discovery sparked the interest of European colonizers, and Great Britain eventually captured the US then made it another route to bring spices from its colonies in Asia. Under the European reign, Britain exploited the locals, the government imposed more taxes, and the militia punished the government protesters.
The exploitation led to significant events such as the American Revolutionary War in 1775, the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, and finally ending the war against Britain through the Treaty of Paris in 1783.
America’s independence was challenged by economic depression as the country was starting out governing itself from the shadow of Great Britain’s governance. The US framed its constitution, starting with 10 million inhabitants. Decades after, the country expanded by capturing nearby territories, became the first country to develop nuclear weapons and use them in war and had the highest GDP among other countries in the world.
Climates and Seasons
The United States has a large territory resulting in a considerable difference in its climate depending on your location. For instance, Alaska’s abundance of Tundra lands makes it cold, windy, and experience infrequent rainfalls, while Hawaii and Florida experience tropical climates. The Pacific Ocean borders the US on the west and the Atlantic Ocean on the east, increasing humidity to the mentioned coastal states.
The country has four distinct seasons: fall, winter, spring, and summer. The United States offers excellent natural spots if you’re visiting in the summer and has a high urban concentration if you would just like a laid-back stroll on a cold winter day. The peak season is often in spring from March to May and autumn from September to November. For visitors who are into holiday vibes but don’t want to go during the peak season, winter is secretly the best time to enjoy the wonders of the United States still.
Transport System
There’s a lot to discover in the United States, and visitors don’t have to worry about getting to the top tourist spots when traveling. The US has a rail service called Amtrak, connecting the country’s major cities to bus routes and rural areas. Amtrak was established in the 1970s to provide passengers with quality transport and minimize the previously private-owned transit system cost. The good thing about riding the Amtrak train is seeing the rural scenic views of the United States as you travel.
Another way to hop from state to state is by car. There are car rentals available as soon as you get off the plane. Reservations are available as long as you have a credit card for cash deposit. It’s up to you if you would like to rent daily or weekly. Solo travelers can also take the bus, which is the most affordable way of getting around the US.
Diversity of Tourist Spots
Besides being a melting pot of cultures, the United States has exhilarating geography to bring out one’s wanderlust. It is a must to deliberately plan your itinerary, ranging from beaches, mountains, highlands, and natural parks.
The United States splits into six regions, each state offering diverse spots.
• Mid-Atlantic region – includes the Big Apple (NYC) and the other industrial states in America such as Delaware, New Jersey, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. It is the home of skyscrapers and flourishing commerce and trade.
• South and Midwest – cradles the mineral and agricultural wealth of the United States, abundant of freshwater, desert, and mountains. Famous for Providence Canyon State Park, Mount Rushmore, and other iconic landscapes.
• Southwest – houses the country’s beautiful landscapes rugged mountains such as the Carlsbad Caverns and Grand Canyon. Include the states of Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.
• West – is where the “cowboy” way of life is, abundant with mines, cattle, and spacious land areas. Also include California, Nevada, Hawaii, Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, Montana, Oregon, and Washington.
• New England – is the best place for hiking, swimming, and even skiing. Home of literary authors such as Mark Twain, Dan Brown, and Stephen King.
