The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or USA, is a federal republic consisting of 50 states, a federal district (the District of Columbia), five major self-governing territories, and various possessions. Here is a comprehensive overview:
The United States is the third or fourth largest country by total area, covering an expanse from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, with Alaska in the northwest and Hawaii extending into the Mid-Pacific. The country has a varied landscape including vast plains, rugged mountains, and extensive coastlines.
The history of the United States begins with the arrival of the first inhabitants, who migrated across the Bering Strait from Asia more than 12,000 years ago. European colonization began with the Spanish in 1492, followed by the British and other Europeans. The Thirteen Colonies on the East Coast of North America declared independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776, marking the start of the American Revolution. After the war, the colonies formed a new nation under the United States Constitution in 1789.
The United States has the world's largest economy by nominal GDP and is known for its technological innovation, advanced infrastructure, and leading industries like technology, finance, aerospace, and pharmaceuticals. Major economic hubs include New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
American culture has been shaped by waves of immigration from around the world, resulting in a diverse cultural landscape. Key cultural elements include: